Understanding
Youth Vaping in the UK
Youth vaping continues to be an area of interest for public health in the UK. According to Action on Smoking and Health (ASH), 7.2% of children aged 11–17 (approximately 390,000) were current vapers in 2024. This is higher than the 5.1% (around 280,000) who reported currently smoking tobacco, reflecting a pattern observed since 2021 where vaping has become more common than smoking among young people.
Experimentation with both behaviours is also reported at similar levels. In 2024, 18% of 11–17-year-olds had tried vaping, and the same proportion had tried smoking. Most young people who have tried vaping have never smoked, suggesting that vaping among this age group is not limited to those using it as a smoking alternative.
Reasons Behind Youth Vaping
Understanding the reasons why young people try vaping can help inform appropriate responses. According to ASH’s 2024 survey, among never-smokers aged 11–17 who had tried vaping:
- 51% said they did so “just to give it a try”
- 18% mentioned peer influence
- 11% were drawn to the available flavours
These findings indicate that experimentation, social dynamics, and product characteristics may play a role in initial use among this age group.
About ASH
Action on Smoking and Health (ASH) is a UK-based public health organisation established by the Royal College of Physicians in 1971. It promotes evidence-based approaches to reducing tobacco-related harm. ASH operates independently of international counterparts and does not accept funding from commercial interests. It’s core funding comes from the British Heart Foundation and Cancer Research UK.
Since 2013, ASH has run the annual Smokefree Youth Survey in partnership with YouGov. The survey gathers responses from around 2,000 to 2,500 young people aged 11 to 18 each March, with results typically reported for those aged 11 to 17. The data contributes to understanding trends in youth smoking and vaping in the UK.
A Clear Age Gradient in Youth Vaping
Findings from the 2024 ASH Smokefree Youth Survey show that experimentation with vaping tends to increase with age among young people in Great Britain. In 2024, 14% of those aged 11–15, 28% of 16–17 year olds, and 34% of 18 year olds reported having tried vaping. This gradual increase by age has been observed consistently from 2017 to 2024 and may be relevant when considering the focus of education and prevention efforts.
Rapid Rise in Youth Vaping Linked to Disposable Vapes (ASH, 2024)
According to ASH’s 2024 Smokefree Youth Survey, the increase in youth vaping observed between 2021 and 2023 coincided with a rise in the use of disposable vapes. These devices are now the most commonly used type of e-cigarette among younger age groups, with 54% of 11–17-year-old vapers and 52% of 18–24-year-olds identifying disposables as their main device. In comparison, only 16% of vapers aged 55 and over report primarily using disposables, suggesting an age-related pattern in device preference. While disposable use increased across all age groups during this period, recent data suggests the trend may be stabilising.
Health Risks and Perceptions
Vaping is often considered a less harmful alternative to smoking; however, it is not without risk, particularly for young people. Exposure to nicotine during adolescence may impact brain development and increase the likelihood of dependence. The long-term health effects of vaping remain under investigation.
Survey findings from 2024 show that 58% of 11–17-year-olds believe vaping is as harmful or more harmful than smoking. This perception may influence how vaping is viewed by both young people and adult smokers and underlines the importance of accessible, evidence-based health information.
Vape Aware's Role
Vape Aware aims to support public understanding and promote responsible use of vaping products. We believe that vaping should be used only by adults as a potential tool for quitting combustible tobacco. Our work focuses on three core areas:
Education
Sharing accurate, evidence-based information on the potential risks and benefits of vaping.
Prevention
Supporting measures that reduce youth access to vaping products.
Support
Helping adult smokers make informed decisions about alternatives to smoking.
Resources for Further Information
For more detailed information and support, please refer to the following resources:
By staying informed and proactive, we can work together to protect the health of young people and support adults in making healthier choices.
