Tobacco smoking is England's biggest killer, causing almost 220 deaths every day. E-cigarettes, their safety, effectiveness in smoking cessation and patterns of use continue to dominate global debate on tobacco control. Over the past year in England perceptions of their safety have worsened and their use in quit attempts has declined. This presentation will review recent evidence and developments in the e-cigarette field including evidence on harms and their role in smoking cessation
Professor John Newton is Director of Health Improvement at Public Health England (PHE), Honorary Professor of Public Health and Epidemiology at the Universities of Manchester and Exeter and Vice President of the UK Faculty of Public Health. He is a public health physician who has been an academic epidemiologist in the University of Oxford, Director of Research and Development in two large teaching hospitals, the first Director and CEO of the UK Biobank project, a Regional Director of Public Health in the NHS and adviser to the Secretary of State on testing for coronavirus. He currently directs the information, intelligence and research functions of PHE and its national health improvement functions - including screening, alcohol, drugs, tobacco, health and justice, diet, obesity and physical activity, mental health and sexual health. John has led England's contribution to reporting the Global Burden of Disease project, was founding Chairman of the WHO European Burden of Disease Network and is a member of the Scientific Council of the Global Burden of Disease study.