The effectiveness of peer-group interventions for preventing use of vaping in young people: A systematic review

Youth vaping has risen sharply globally and in the United Kingdom in recent years. Associated risks include nicotine dependence, respiratory problems, and progression to tobacco and other substance use. Given that peer influence is a key driver of vaping uptake, this review examined the effectiveness of peer-led and peer-group interventions for changing vaping-related behaviours and attitudes among young people.

We conducted a systematic review of published literature to identify eligible studies. Interventions were included if they targeted individuals aged ≤ 24 years, had a peer-led or peer-group component, and reported outcomes related to vaping use or reduction. Two reviewers independently screened, extracted data, and assessed risk of bias.

Six eligible studies, all conducted in the United States, were included in this review. Interventions were primarily school-based peer education programmes. Several studies reported reductions in vaping behaviours or slower uptake compared with control groups although this was not consistent across all studies. Most studies demonstrated improvements in vaping knowledge. Evidence regarding susceptibility and attitudes was mixed, with modest positive changes observed in some studies but no significant effects in others. Where measured, studies demonstrated that peer-led and peer-group approaches were highly acceptable to participants.

Peer-led and peer-group interventions show promise in improving knowledge and influencing vaping behaviours among young people, but evidence on susceptibility and attitudes is inconsistent. There is a clear need for UK-based research to evaluate the feasibility and effectiveness of such interventions in informing local public health policy and practice.