The rise of vaping among young people in Europe has become a significant public health concern, with countries such as Luxembourg, Estonia, and Czechia reporting the highest rates of usage. According to the latest OECD report, the average vaping rate among individuals aged 15 to 24 was 6.5% in 2022, with Estonia leading at 30%, followed by the Czech Republic at 25% and Luxembourg at 20%. Vaping has been seen as a healthier alternative to traditional smoking and has gained popularity among those trying to quit smoking. However, concerns have been raised about the addictive nature of nicotine in vapes and the potential impact on non-smokers, leading several EU countries to implement regulatory measures to address the issue.
Belgium made headlines as the first EU country to ban the sale of disposable vapes starting in January 2025, citing concerns about 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 Tobacco Control Committee, emphasized the need to discourage non-smokers from starting to vape due to the highly addictive nature of nicotine. While e-cigarettes may aid in smoking cessation for some individuals, the challenge lies in providing appropriate support to ensure successful quitting, as many end up becoming dual users, which can hinder cessation efforts.
The delay in implementing smoking reforms in the EU, now pushed to 2025, has raised questions about the commitment to the anti-tobacco agenda and the influence of the tobacco industry on the issue. Despite calls from 12 EU countries to implement reforms such as banning flavored vapes and limiting nicotine content, concerns remain about the potential impact of these products on public health. It is essential to strike a balance between offering support for smoking cessation while also addressing the rising rates of vaping among young people to minimize the negative consequences associated with these products.
Josef Hamoud from the University Medical Center Göttingen emphasized the widespread use of vapes among adolescents and adults globally, driven by extensive marketing as healthier alternatives to traditional smoking. The sharp rise in vaping rates among young people in Estonia and the Czech Republic has been accompanied by a decline in tobacco smoking, highlighting the shifting landscape of nicotine consumption. The varying rates of vaping across Europe indicate a need for targeted interventions to address the specific challenges posed by different countries and populations, with a focus on prevention efforts to deter non-smokers from using these products.
In conclusion, the growing popularity of vaping among young people in Europe has prompted several EU countries to take regulatory action to address the public health implications. Belgium’s decision to ban the sale of disposable vapes marks a significant step in curbing the appeal of these products to youth, while calls for further reforms at the EU level highlight the ongoing debate surrounding vaping and smoking cessation. It is crucial to provide adequate support for individuals looking to quit smoking while also implementing measures to prevent non-smokers, especially young people, from initiating vaping. By striking a balance between regulation, education, and support services, policymakers can work towards reducing the negative impact of vaping on public health in Europe.
