Smokers could save nearly £800 a year by switching to e-cigarettes, according to a recent study.
Researchers at University College London (UCL) used data from surveys of 859 adult smokers and vapers in England to calculate the average weekly cost of nicotine products.
At just £8.03, e-cigarettes were the cheapest option, followed by nicotine-replacement products like patches and gum at £10.05 and cigarettes at £23.09 a week for a six-a-day habit.
Heavy smokers could save considerably more by making the switch.
Lead author Sarah Jackson said:
“A third of smokers list cost as an important factor driving their desire to quit.
“Our study shows that if people switch completely to alternative products such as e-cigarettes or NRT, a substantial saving could be made.
“While the absolute cost saving will vary according to individual usage patterns, we estimate that ex-smokers who have switched to e-cigarettes or NRT spend about £13-15 less per week than the average smoker.”
The research serves to further reinforce the benefits of quitting smoking with the aid of e-cigarettes over traditional nicotine-replacement therapy.
A study published in May found that smokers were three times more likely to successfully quit with e-cigarettes than with patches or gum.
Kruti Shrotri, Cancer Research UK’s tobacco control manager, said:
“Quitting smoking is the single best thing a smoker can do for their health.
“And e-cigarettes are one of the many tools that can help.
“We need more research to determine the long-term effects, but studies so far have shown that e-cigarettes are less harmful than tobacco.
“With a more affordable price tag, it’s an alternative option for smokers looking to quit and make savings.”
Header Image: TBEC Review [Flickr]
