Proxy purchasing remains the greatest source of vapes by underage users, despite a rise in buying from small shops. 

A new study by Imperial College London, based on a survey by ASH, found 53% of vapers aged 11-18 found sources other than supermarkets. Small shops and online remain the most-common point of access. 

The number purchasing from small shops, including convenience and vape shops, increased from 34% in 2019 to 51% in 2022. Study lead author Dr Anthony Laverty blamed lax enforcement of age restrictions for the pattern. 

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