people who smoke are more likely to develop chronic lung and cardiovascular diseases .
Vaping organisations hope the smoking sales figures are a one-off anomaly and that cigarette sales will once again decline this year .
World Vapers ’ Alliance Director Michael Landl said that lawmakers also had an important role to play in helping smokers quit .
He said : “ Vaping is less harmful than smoking and can help smokers to quit and former smokers to stay away from the deadly habit .
“ That is why new regulations should be led by science and real-life experience , instead of ideology .
“ Lawmakers around the globe must actively encourage smokers to switch to e-cigarettes and ensure accessibility and affordability , otherwise the goal of improving public health can ’ t be achieved .
“ Now 2021 must become the year of vaping instead of smoking .”
Meanwhile in America , some states are putting smokers in the priority groups to receive the COVID-19 vaccine because of the potential extra risks they face . Smokers in Pennsylvania , New Jersey , Mississippi and Alabama can all receive priority COVID vaccines as they are regarded to be in ‘ highrisk ’ medical groups .
“ COVID-19 has created a drastic change in daily life , including increased stress and anxiety , that may contribute to a smaller-than-expected reduction in cigarette sales .”
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