Vaping Statistics & Facts: How Many People Vape in 2024?

Vaping Statistics & Facts 2024

As the year 2024 unfolds, let's take a closer look at the global vaping trends and the prevalence of vaping among different age groups. These statistics and facts provide insights into the current landscape of vaping.

Global Vaping Trends

• The number of individuals using e-cigarettes, also known as vapers, has been steadily increasing on a global scale.
• In 2018, the estimated number of e-cigarette users worldwide was 58.1 million.
• The projection for 2020 is 68 million vapers globally, indicating a growing trend in e-cigarette usage.
• E-cigarette use is particularly prevalent among young adults. In the United States, for example, over 20% of individuals aged 18-24 reported past-month e-cigarette use in 2019.
• E-cigarette use has been increasing in many countries over the past few years. For example, between 2013 and 2018, the prevalence of e-cigarette use among adults in England increased from 3.7% to 7.1%.
• While some individuals use e-cigarettes as a smoking cessation aid, others use them recreationally or experimentally.
• The long-term health effects of e-cigarette use are not yet fully understood, but research suggests that they may pose risks to lung health and cardiovascular health.
• The World Health Organization has expressed concern about the marketing and promotion of e-cigarettes, particularly to youth, and has recommended that their use be regulated.
• Some countries have implemented strict regulations or bans on e-cigarette use. For example, in Singapore, the sale and importation of e-cigarettes is prohibited.
• The global market for e-cigarettes and vaping products is projected to continue to grow in the coming years, with estimates suggesting that it will reach over $60 billion by 2025.

Vaping has become a popular alternative to traditional tobacco products, with many individuals turning to e-cigarettes as a potential harm reduction strategy. The accessibility and variety of e-cigarette devices, flavors, and nicotine strengths contribute to the widespread adoption of vaping.

Vaping Among Different Age Groups

• Vaping is prevalent among individuals across various age brackets.
• Disposable e-cigarettes are commonly used among individuals aged 13 to 40 years.
• Teens are 16 times more likely to use JUUL devices compared to older age groups.
• More than 2.5 million high and middle school students in the United States use vaping products.
• E-cigarette use among adolescents is considered an epidemic.
• In 2021, 4.5% of adults aged 18 and over in the United States were current e-cigarette users, according to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC).
• Among adults, individuals aged 18–24 had the highest e-cigarette usage rate at 11.0%, compared to those aged 25–44 (6.5%) and 45 and over (2.0%).
• In Canada, approximately 23% of youth aged 15-19 reported using e-cigarettes in the past month in 2019.
• In England, the prevalence of e-cigarette use among adults was highest among those aged 25-34 (9%) and lowest among those aged 65 and over (1%) in 2018.
• While e-cigarette use is generally higher among younger age groups, it is still prevalent among older adults. A study of U.S. adults aged 50 and over found that approximately 4% reported using e-cigarettes in the past month.

In summary, the global vaping landscape continues to evolve, with an increasing number of individuals embracing e-cigarettes. Vaping is prevalent among various age groups, including adolescents and adults. Monitoring these trends and understanding the prevalence of vaping is essential for public health initiatives and regulatory efforts.

Prevalence of Vaping

Understanding the prevalence of vaping is crucial in assessing the impact and trends of this behavior. In this section, we will explore the estimated number of vapers worldwide and the prevalence of vaping among adolescents.

Number of Vapers Worldwide

• The number of individuals using e-cigarettes, also known as vapers, has seen a significant increase in recent years.
• In 2018, the estimated global number of e-cigarette users was 58.1 million.
• This number is projected to reach 68 million vapers globally by the year 2020.
• The number of vapers has been increasing in many countries over the past few years. For example, between 2013 and 2018, the prevalence of e-cigarette use among adults in England increased from 3.7% to 7.1% [3].
• In the United States, an estimated 9 million adults used e-cigarettes in 2020.
• E-cigarette use is particularly prevalent among young adults. In the United States, for example, over 20% of individuals aged 18-24 reported past-month e-cigarette use in 2019.
• While some individuals use e-cigarettes as a smoking cessation aid, others use them recreationally or experimentally.
• The long-term health effects of e-cigarette use are not yet fully understood, but research suggests that they may pose risks to lung health and cardiovascular health.
• The World Health Organization has expressed concern about the marketing and promotion of e-cigarettes, particularly to youth, and has recommended that their use be regulated.
• E-cigarettes are often marketed as a safer alternative to traditional cigarettes, but their safety and efficacy as a smoking cessation aid have been debated by experts.

Vaping Among Adolescents

Concerns have been raised regarding the high prevalence of vaping among adolescents. It is estimated that more than 2.5 million high and middle school students use vaping products, making e-cigarette use among adolescents an epidemic.

A study found that disposable e-cigarettes are commonly used among individuals aged 13 to 40 years. Among these age groups, teens are 16 times more likely to use JUUL devices compared to older individuals.

The popularity of e-cigarettes among young people is a significant concern. In 2020, about one in five high school students in the United States used e-cigarettes, with many of them being non-smokers initially. This indicates a concerning trend of non-smoking youth being introduced to nicotine through vaping.

The prevalence of vaping among adolescents is not limited to a specific country or region. Rates exceeding adult use have been observed in many countries, emphasizing the need for comprehensive measures to address this issue. It is crucial to understand and address the factors contributing to the high prevalence of vaping among adolescents to protect the younger generation from the potential risks associated with e-cigarette use.

By examining the prevalence of vaping, we can gain insights into the scale of this behavior and its impact on different age groups. These statistics highlight the importance of implementing effective measures to reduce vaping rates among adolescents and promote healthier alternatives.

Impact of Vaping

Vaping has gained significant popularity in recent years, but it is crucial to understand the potential health risks associated with this practice. In this section, we will explore the health risks of vaping and shed light on EVALI, a vaping-related lung injury that has garnered attention.

Health Risks Associated with Vaping

While the long-term health effects of vaping are still being studied, evidence suggests that there are potential risks involved. The variability of nicotine levels in e-cigarettes is a concern, with some devices containing levels that rival or exceed those found in combustible cigarettes. Nicotine is highly addictive and can have detrimental effects on brain development, especially in adolescents.

Moreover, the aerosols produced by e-cigarettes may contain harmful substances such as heavy metals, volatile organic compounds, and ultrafine particles. These substances can contribute to respiratory issues and lung damage when inhaled over an extended period.

It is becoming increasingly evident that e-cigarettes may pose their own unique health risks, and comparing them solely to traditional cigarettes may not provide a comprehensive understanding of their impact on individual health [4]. The World Health Organization (WHO) recommends refraining from using both e-cigarettes and tobacco products as the safest approach to safeguarding health [5].

EVALI: Vaping-Related Lung Injury

In recent years, a concerning outbreak of vaping-related lung injuries, known as EVALI (e-cigarette or vaping product use-associated lung injury), has emerged. EVALI is characterized by symptoms such as cough, shortness of breath, chest pain, fever, and gastrointestinal issues. As of February 2020, EVALI had caused 68 deaths in 29 states and the District of Columbia.

The exact cause of EVALI is still under investigation, but evidence suggests that vitamin E acetate, an additive found in some THC-containing vaping products, may play a role. Vitamin E acetate has been found in lung fluid samples of individuals with EVALI, and it is believed to be associated with the development of the condition.

The outbreak of EVALI highlights the importance of understanding the potential risks associated with vaping. It serves as a reminder that caution should be exercised when using e-cigarettes, especially with the use of products from unregulated sources or containing unknown substances.

As research continues, it is essential to stay informed about the latest findings regarding the health risks of vaping. Consulting with healthcare professionals and relying on reputable sources for information can help individuals make informed decisions about their vaping habits.

Vaping in the United States

The use of e-cigarettes, commonly known as vaping, has gained significant popularity in recent years. Understanding the prevalence of vaping among different demographic groups is crucial for assessing the impact of this trend. In the United States, vaping among adults has been a subject of interest.

Vaping Among Adults

• In 2021, approximately 4.5% of adults aged 18 and over in the United States were current e-cigarette users, according to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC).
• Among adults, individuals aged 18–24 had the highest e-cigarette usage rate at 11.0%, followed by those aged 25–44 at 6.5%, and individuals aged 45 and over at 2.0%.
• In England, the prevalence of e-cigarette use among adults was highest among those aged 25-34 (9%) and lowest among those aged 65 and over (1%) in 2018.
• In Canada, the prevalence of current e-cigarette use among adults was highest among those aged 25-34 (15%) and lowest among those aged 65 and over (3%) in 2019.
• In Australia, the prevalence of current e-cigarette use among adults was highest among those aged 18-24 (16%) and lowest among those aged 65 and over (1%) in 2019.
• In some countries, such as Japan, e-cigarettes are not widely used among adults. A survey conducted in Japan in 2018 found that only 1.7% of adults reported ever using an e-cigarette.
• While e-cigarette use is generally higher among younger age groups, it is still prevalent among older adults. A study of U.S. adults aged 50 and over found that approximately 4% reported using e-cigarettes in the past month.
• E-cigarette use may be more common among certain subgroups of adults, such as those with mental health or substance use issues.
• The reasons why adults use e-cigarettes vary, but some may use them as a smoking cessation aid or as a perceived safer alternative to traditional cigarettes.
• The long-term health effects of e-cigarette use among adults are not yet fully understood, but research suggests that they may pose risks to lung health and cardiovascular health.

Vaping Among Different Demographic Groups

The prevalence of vaping among adults in the United States also varies by race, Hispanic origin, and family income. The percentage of adults who were current e-cigarette users generally decreased as family income increased. This suggests that vaping may be more common among individuals with lower income levels.

• Dual use of e-cigarettes and traditional cigarettes is more prevalent among young adults aged 18–24 and those aged 25–44 compared to individuals aged 45 and over.
• A study of U.S. adults found that approximately 40% of current e-cigarette users also reported current cigarette smoking.
• Among young adults aged 18-24 who use e-cigarettes, the prevalence of dual use with traditional cigarettes was approximately 54% in 2018.
• In Canada, the prevalence of dual use among current e-cigarette users was highest among those aged 18-24 (47%) and lowest among those aged 65 and over (7%) in 2019.
• In England, the prevalence of dual use among current e-cigarette users was highest among those aged 25-34 (33%) and lowest among those aged 65 and over (2%) in 2018.
• Dual use of e-cigarettes and traditional cigarettes may pose greater health risks than using either product alone.
• Dual use may be more common among certain subgroups of individuals, such as those with mental health or substance use issues.
• The reasons why some individuals engage in dual use are not fully understood, but factors such as addiction to nicotine or difficulty quitting smoking may play a role.
• Some experts have expressed concern that e-cigarettes may serve as a gateway to traditional cigarette smoking, particularly among youth who engage in dual use.
• More research is needed to better understand the patterns and health effects of dual use of e-cigarettes and traditional cigarettes.

Understanding the demographics of vaping among adults provides valuable insights into the trends and patterns associated with this behavior. By identifying the specific age groups and demographic characteristics that are more likely to engage in vaping, public health initiatives can be tailored to address the needs of these populations effectively.

E-cigarette Market

The e-cigarette market has experienced significant growth in recent years, driven by various factors such as shifting consumer preferences and increasing awareness of the potential health risks associated with conventional tobacco cigarettes. In this section, we will explore the growth and market size of the e-cigarette industry, as well as regional trends and projections.

Growth and Market Size

According to a market report, the global e-cigarette and vape market size is estimated to be worth USD million in 2024, with a projected readjusted size of USD million by 2028. This indicates a Compound Annual Growth Rate (CAGR) of Percent during the forecast period 2022-2028.

The growing concerns over health risks associated with conventional tobacco cigarettes have played a significant role in driving the demand for e-cigarettes. Many adult smokers are considering switching to e-cigarettes as an alternative, contributing to the growth of the market [6].

To understand the market dynamics at a deeper level, the report focuses on e-cigarette and vape volume and value at the global, regional, and company levels. This provides insights into market size, share, growth rates, and current market conditions, enabling companies to develop expansion plans.

Regional Trends and Projections

The e-cigarette market exhibits varying trends and projections across different regions. In 2022, the European e-cigarette and vape market was estimated at USD million. By 2028, it is projected to reach USD million. Notable markets within Europe include Germany, which is expected to reach USD million by 2028 [6].

In Asia, Japan and South Korea are significant markets in terms of e-cigarette and vape growth. Japan is projected to experience a Compound Annual Growth Rate (CAGR) of Percent, while South Korea is expected to have a CAGR of Percent during the next six years.

The United States and China are also important players in the e-cigarette market. By 2028, the United States is forecasted to reach USD million, while China is projected to reach USD million. These projections indicate the potential for continued growth and market opportunities in these regions.

As the e-cigarette market continues to evolve, it is essential for businesses and stakeholders to stay informed about emerging trends and regional dynamics. By understanding the growth and market size of the e-cigarette industry, companies can make informed decisions and adapt their strategies to capitalize on the evolving market landscape.

Vaping and Smoking Cessation

When it comes to smoking cessation, e-cigarettes have gained attention as a potential aid to help individuals quit smoking. In this section, we will explore the role of e-cigarettes as a smoking cessation aid and the impact of vaping on smoking behavior.

E-cigarettes as a Smoking Cessation Aid

Several studies have examined the effectiveness of e-cigarettes as a tool for smoking cessation. In an English smoking cessation randomized controlled trial, it was found that smokers assigned to e-cigarettes achieved nearly twice the rate of biochemically confirmed smoking cessation at 1 year compared to smokers assigned to nicotine replacement therapy.

Moreover, population studies have consistently shown a higher success rate in quit attempts among smokers who use e-cigarettes compared to those who use other methods. E-cigarettes are reported as the most commonly used aid in quit attempts by smokers.

It's important to note that while e-cigarettes have shown promise in helping some individuals quit smoking, they are not approved by the FDA as a smoking cessation device. As with any smoking cessation method, it's recommended to consult with healthcare professionals for personalized guidance and support.

Impact of Vaping on Smoking Behavior

While e-cigarettes have been beneficial for some smokers looking to quit, there are concerns regarding the impact of vaping on smoking behavior. Research indicates that young adults who use e-cigarettes are more than four times as likely to begin smoking tobacco cigarettes within 18 months compared to their peers who do not vape [8]. This suggests a strong link between e-cigarette use and subsequent tobacco cigarette use.

It's worth noting that vaping is not risk-free, and the long-term health effects are still being studied. However, organizations such as the National Academies of Sciences, Engineering, and Medicine and the British Royal College of Physicians have concluded that vaping is likely far less hazardous than smoking cigarettes. It's essential to strike a balance between harm reduction and addressing potential risks associated with vaping.

Policies aimed at restricting e-cigarette use may have unintended consequences, such as increasing cigarette smoking rates. For example, a study associated a Minnesota e-cigarette tax with increased adult smoking and reduced cessation. It estimated that taxing e-cigarettes at the same rate as cigarettes nationwide could deter 2.75 million smokers from quitting smoking over a decade.

As the landscape of vaping and smoking cessation continues to evolve, it is crucial to consider the available evidence, consult healthcare professionals, and implement policies that strike a balance between providing support for smokers who wish to quit and minimizing potential risks associated with vaping.

Youth and Vaping

As the popularity of vaping continues to rise, it is crucial to examine the impact it has on young people. This section focuses on the prevalence of vaping among teens and the concerns and regulations surrounding this issue.

Vaping Among Teens

• A study published in Tobacco Control revealed that 15- to 17-year-olds have over 16 times greater odds of being current JUUL users compared to those between 25 and 34 years old.
• Among the teenagers who used JUUL in the past 30 days, 56 percent used the e-cigarette on three or more days, with almost half of that group using it on 10 or more days in the past month.
• Shockingly, 9.7 percent of 15- to 17-year-olds reported ever using JUUL, which now constitutes almost three-quarters of the entire e-cigarette market.
• Unpublished FDA data suggests a projected 77 percent increase in e-cigarette use among high school students in 2018 compared to 2017.
• Many teenagers do not consider JUUL to be an e-cigarette, potentially indicating a higher actual increase in usage.
• The rise in teen vaping has led FDA Commissioner Scott Gottlieb to declare it an epidemic.
• In a survey of American high school students conducted in 2019, approximately 27.5% reported current e-cigarette use.
• In Canada, the prevalence of current e-cigarette use among youth aged 15-19 was approximately 20% in 2019.
• In England, the prevalence of current e-cigarette use among youth aged 11-15 was approximately 6% in 2018.
• The reasons why teenagers are attracted to vaping are complex, but factors such as the discreet usage, appealing flavors, and sleek design of devices like JUUL may play a role [6].

Concerns and Regulations

The rapid increase in teen vaping has raised significant concerns. Not only does it expose young people to nicotine addiction and potential harm to their developing brains, but it also creates a pathway to traditional tobacco cigarette use. Young adults who use e-cigarettes are more than four times as likely to begin smoking tobacco cigarettes within 18 months compared to their peers who do not vape. This highlights a strong link between e-cigarette use and subsequent tobacco cigarette use.

To address the issue, regulations and education play vital roles in combating the vaping epidemic among youth. It is crucial to implement stricter regulations on the marketing, sale, and distribution of e-cigarettes to minors. Additionally, comprehensive educational campaigns should be developed to increase awareness about the potential risks and consequences of vaping. By actively addressing these concerns, we can work towards preventing the potential reversal of progress made in the past two decades to deter youth and young adults from becoming smokers.

Future of Vaping

As vaping continues to evolve, there are various challenges and recommendations that come into play. Balancing harm reduction and risks is a crucial aspect that needs careful consideration to ensure the well-being of individuals.

Challenges and Recommendations

One of the primary challenges in the future of vaping lies in understanding and addressing the potential health risks associated with e-cigarettes. While e-cigarettes were initially marketed as a safer alternative to traditional cigarettes, it is becoming increasingly apparent that they may pose their own unique health harms. The comparison between e-cigarettes and cigarettes may not be the only relevant question when determining their impact on individual health [4].

To mitigate these risks, it is crucial for regulatory bodies and public health organizations to continue conducting research and monitoring the long-term effects of vaping on health. Evidence-based policies and regulations should be implemented to protect individuals, especially young adults and adolescents, from potential harm. Education campaigns should also focus on raising awareness about the risks associated with e-cigarette use and encouraging informed decision-making.

Balancing Harm Reduction and Risks

When considering the future of vaping, it is essential to strike a balance between harm reduction and risks. While e-cigarettes may offer a potentially less harmful alternative to traditional cigarettes for adult smokers, it is important to note that e-cigarettes and tobacco products still pose risks to health. The World Health Organization (WHO) recommends not using either as the safest approach to protect public health.

Policies and interventions should be designed in a way that supports harm reduction strategies without undermining efforts to combat tobacco use. Governments and regulatory bodies should prioritize evidence-based approaches to tobacco cessation and consider the potential unintended consequences of policies aimed at restricting e-cigarette use. For instance, studies have shown that taxing e-cigarettes at the same rate as traditional cigarettes may deter smokers from quitting and inadvertently increase cigarette smoking.

The future of vaping will depend on ongoing research, evidence-based policies, and a comprehensive understanding of the potential risks and benefits associated with e-cigarette use. Striking the right balance between harm reduction strategies and protecting public health will be crucial in shaping the future landscape of vaping.

It is important for individuals, particularly young adults and adolescents, to be aware of the potential risks associated with e-cigarettes. Understanding the link between e-cigarette use and subsequent tobacco cigarette use can help inform decision-making and prevent the initiation of harmful habits. By prioritizing research, education, and evidence-based policies, societies can navigate the future of vaping with a focus on public health and harm reduction.

References

• [1]: https://harmreductionjournal.biomedcentral.com
• ‍[2]: https://www.singlecare.com/blog/news/vaping-statistics
• [3]: https://www.cdc.gov/nchs/products
• ‍[4]: https://truthinitiative.org/research-resources
• ‍[5]: https://www.who.int/news-room
• ‍[6]: https://www.linkedin.com/pulse
• ‍[7]: https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles
• ‍[8]: https://truthinitiative.org/research-resources