Data demonstrates that as vaping increases, the number of smokers declines.

In the UK, smoking fell to its lowest level ever last year, but more people were turning to e-cigarettes, according to new data.

According to data from the Office for National Statistics, in 2021, 14.0% fewer people who were 18 or older did so than in 2020—around 13.3%.

However, compared to 6.4% in 2020, 7.7% of people aged 16 and over reported using e-cigarettes.

In 2011, the first ONS records on smoking were made, and 20.2% of people reported smoking.

According to James Tucker, statistics and analysis manager for the ONS’s social care and health section, the rise in e-cigarette use may be somewhat to blame for the decline of smokers.

“This is the lowest percentage of current smokers since 2011 when we started monitoring smoking prevalence from the annual population survey (APS),” he declared.

The ONS said that the use of vaping products like e-cigarettes had significantly decreased the number of smokers in the UK.

Only 1.5% of those who have never smoked said that they currently vape, with current smokers and former smokers using e-cigarettes at higher rates (25.3% and 15.0%, respectively).

However, it was also noted that other factors may have contributed to the decline in smoking rates.

It might also be a result of increased public awareness efforts and smoke-free establishments like bars and workplaces.

By the end of 2022, the government hopes to have the adult smoking rate in England down to 12% or fewer thanks to its tobacco control strategy.

The age group of 25 to 34-year-olds had the largest percentage of current smokers (15.8%), while the lowest percentage was seen among people 65 and older (8%).

According to the ONS, those without any education were more likely to smoke today (28.2%), compared to people whose greatest level of education was a degree or equivalent (6.6%).

Although not risk-free, vaping is less dangerous than smoking tobacco cigarettes, according to the NHS website. However, it is unknown what vaping will do in the long run.

E-cigarette sales to minors under the age of 18 are prohibited by law.