GPs' perspectives on assessing vaping among adolescents without prior smoking history: a qualitative study within...

An increasing number of adolescents and young adults who have never smoked now use e-cigarettes. GPs must screen and counsel effectively as vaping is linked to an increased chance of progression to conventional smoking in those who have never smoked. Limited long-term data compounds risk and uncertainty for chronic users. Evidence to guide GP counselling of adolescents and young adults who vape remains scarce in routine clinical practice.

To investigate GPs' perspectives on tackling the vaping epidemic, their preparedness, current management approaches, challenges, and potential improvements at personal and national levels.

Qualitative study using semi-structured interviews (SSIs) with UK GPs.

Invitations for SSIs were sent to Primary Care Networks nationwide. Participants were purposively sampled to reflect the national GP demographic. Interviews were conducted in April and May 2024, reaching data saturation at n = 11. Interviews were transcribed verbatim, imported to NVivo (version 10) and thematically analysed using the Gioia method.

Four aggregate dimensions, 11 second-order themes and 29 first-order concepts emerged. Current practice was marked by limited knowledge and variable counselling; drivers for change centred on rising concern about youth vaping; barriers included lack of guidance, services, and time; recommendations emphasised improved education, digital tools and stakeholder engagement.

Our findings highlight the urgent need for interventions to address rising e-cigarette use among adolescents and young adults who have never previously smoked. While some GPs are motivated to improve practice, others are uncertain given the limited and mixed evidence currently available. Effective solutions must extend beyond primary care to involve other healthcare professionals and key stakeholders.