We recently commissioned a snap shot study examining smokers fears associated with
COVID-19 and the impending easement of the lock down.
The study polled 2000 adult smokers between the ages of 18 – 55+ and was primarily focused on evaluating if smoking habits had changed during the Coronavirus Lockdown and what prompted any behavioural shift.
Joanne Emmerson, Head of Marketing, Ibiza Vape Club, said “The study revealed that the majority of smokers in the UK are very concerned about their safety as the lock down is eased. That fear has had a measurable impact on smoking habits during the crisis, with more notable increases in people who are moderate to heavy smokers.”
The study was commissioned to provide insight into smoking during times of stress in order to support ongoing development of Ibiza Vape Club’s SWITCH TO QUIT programme. SWITCH TO QUIT is designed to support smokers who want to quit smoking by switching to vaping (the use of e-cigarettes is fully supported by NHS Smoke Free services1). Coronavirus is presenting smokers with an unprecedented risk to their health2, and with NHS quitting services temporarily on hold, and vaping stores closed, smokers who want to switch to quit are out on a limb. SWITCH TO QUIT provides appropriate products, vaping know-how and behavioural support (all based on the NHS quitting service model), enabling a smoother transition to vaping.
In addition to examining smoking behaviour, the study also examined what aspects of the COVID-19 lockdown easement concerned them, specifically what they worry about for life after the lockdown.
Other quoted concerns included:
Mental Health
Concern for elderly family members.
The Economy not recovering.
Returning to normal and not learning lessons from this crisis in relation to community and the environment.
Domestic violence and regaining personal freedom from an abuser.
Study Highlights:
75% worry about their safety when the lock down is eased.
73% want the lock down to stay in place ahead of adequate testing being in place.
65% said that their biggest fear is a second wave of the outbreak.
48% reported being concerned that life will not return to normal.
- McNeill, A. et al. Evidence review of e- cigarettes and heated tobacco products 2018. A report commissioned by Public Health England (2018).
- ITN Interview, 18 March 2020 https://www.itv.com/news/wales/2020-03-18/smokers-urged-to-quit-now-more-than-ever-or-face-greater-risks-from-coronavirus/
Head of Respiratory Medicine at Swansea University, Professor Keir Lewis commented during an ITV news broadcast, that those who smoke have more than likely damaged the cells protecting their nose and airways. Which means they are more likely to develop lung problems as a result of contracting Covid-19, whether or not they have other medical conditions. Professor Keir also warned that many smokers who have existing lung conditions are at even greater risk.
Suzanne Cass, CEO of ASH Wales, said: “… in light of concerns about the spread of Covid-19 we would urge smokers more than ever to consider giving up a habit that seriously affects the body’s natural defences.”
Joanne Emmerson FCIM
Head of Marketing, Ibiza Club
Joanne is a fellow of the Royal Chartered Institute of Marketing and has 30+ years marketing experience. She has worked all around the world, is published in 7 countries and teaches marketing communication theory at Post Graduate level both in the UK and USA. She has worked alongside many government bodies, health organisations and national charities. ivcservice@ibizavapeclub.com
