As the European Union grapples with the growing popularity of e-cigarettes and vaping products, several member states have introduced regulatory measures to address this new public health challenge. While overall vaping rates remain relatively low across Europe, the latest OECD report reveals considerably higher consumption among young people, with Luxembourg, Estonia, and the Czech Republic recording the highest rates above 10%.
Vaping Rates Soar Among Youth
In 2022, the average vaping rate among 15-24 year olds in the EU reached 6.5%, with Estonia leading the pack at 30%, followed by the Czech Republic at 25% and Luxembourg at 20%. Interestingly, the sharp increase in youth vaping rates in Estonia and the Czech Republic coincided with a significant decline in smoking.
Josef Hamoud of the University Medical Center Göttingen attributes the growing popularity of vaping to intensive marketing campaigns that present e-cigarettes as healthier alternatives to conventional smoking, particularly appealing to those trying to quit.
EU Countries Take Action
In response to the rising vaping rates, Belgium has become the first EU country to ban the sale of disposable vapes starting from January 2025, citing concerns over their appeal to young people and environmental impact. Similarly, Ireland has announced plans to ban disposable e-cigarettes and limit vape flavors to tobacco only.
Dr Filippos Filippidis, chair of the European Respiratory Society's tobacco control committee, emphasizes the need to discourage non-smokers from starting to vape due to the highly addictive nature of nicotine in e-cigarettes. While acknowledging the potential role of e-cigarettes in helping some people quit smoking, he stresses the importance of providing appropriate support to prevent dual use, which can hinder quit attempts.
Calls for EU-Wide Reforms
In June, 12 EU countries called on the European Commission to implement previously delayed smoking reforms, which could include banning flavored vapes and limiting nicotine content. The postponement of these reforms to 2025 has raised concerns about the EU's commitment to its anti-smoking agenda, with some questioning the potential influence of the tobacco industry on the issue.
As the vaping landscape continues to evolve, it is crucial for policymakers, healthcare professionals, and the public to stay informed about the latest research and regulations surrounding these products. By taking a proactive approach to address the rising vaping rates, particularly among youth, EU countries can work towards protecting public health and preventing a new generation from becoming addicted to nicotine.
