LONDON - Young people who use e-cigarettes are significantly more likely to later take up cigarette smoking and face a heightened risk of respiratory and mental health issues, according to a global review on youth vaping.

The comprehensive umbrella review, conducted by researchers from the University of York and the London School of Hygiene and Tropical Medicine, analyzed 56 systematic reviews spanning 384 studies worldwide. Of these, 21 reviews directly examined the relationship between e-cigarette use among young people and subsequent cigarette smoking habits.

In findings published recently in the journal Tobacco Control, researchers identified a "striking" consistency: young vapers were not only at greater risk of taking up smoking, but were also likely to smoke more frequently and intensely later in life.

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The analysis further uncovered an increased likelihood of respiratory illnesses such as asthma and exacerbation of asthma, as well as links to substance abuse, including alcohol and marijuana use.

The study went beyond respiratory concerns, suggesting correlations between youth vaping and other health problems such as pneumonia, bronchitis, lowered sperm counts, dizziness, headaches, migraines, depression, and even suicidal ideation.

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The publication of the review coincides with Britain's recent ban on the sale and supply of disposable vapes, including those without nicotine, as of June. This measure aims to curb the growing popularity of vaping among children aged 11-15, with NHS data from last year indicating nearly a quarter of children in this age group had tried vaping, and almost one in ten used vapes regularly.