In 2023, 10.3% of young people used an e-cigarette monthly. 21.7% of young people used an e-cigarette in the past year. Among the younger target group under 18, the percentage who used an e-cigarette in the past year is also strikingly high: 10.2% of 12–14-year-olds and 23.3% of those aged 15–17.

Figures on smoking among young people

Even more young people smoke tobacco cigarettes. In 2023, 27.4 percent of 12- to 25-year-olds had smoked in the past year. 18.1% already smoke cigarettes monthly. Smoking increases rapidly with age. Among 12–14-year-olds, 5.5% smoke monthly. Among 22–25-year-olds, this is already 36.1%. Of the young people who smoked in the past month, 39.3% also use an e-cigarette every month.

Snus use among young people

Another product containing nicotine is nicotine pouches (also known as snus). In the Netherlands, their sale is prohibited if they contain more than 0.035 milligrams of nicotine per pouch. Nevertheless, pouches with high concentrations are found on the market, and 4.3% of young people have used snus in the past year.

Nicotine addiction

In the longer term, nicotine is also harmful to young people. It disrupts the formation of connections in the brain. If those connections are not formed, this cannot be properly remedied later on. At a later age, for example, they are more likely to experience concentration problems or develop depression.

Doctors sound the alarm: do not leave vaping undiscussed

A collective of doctors is concerned about nicotine addiction among young people. That is why they are calling on people not to leave vaping undiscussed. They have made a video together with concerned parents. The doctors’ advice to parents: watch the video together with your child, start a conversation and visit www.artsenslaanalarm.nl for more information.

About the Youth Monitor on tobacco and nicotine products

This monitor is an initiative of the Trimbos Institute. In March 2023, 4,732 Dutch young people aged 12 to 25 were surveyed about their use of tobacco and nicotine products with the help of I&O Research.

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