Trends in vaping and smoking between 2018 and 2023–24: results from the Belgian Health Interview Survey
Year: 2026
Type: article
Study design: Observational Study
Abstract: Electronic cigarettes (e-cigarettes) present significant health risks, and their increasing use among young people is a growing public health concern. This study examined recent trends in vaping alongside smoking in Belgium, with particular attention to age and sex differences. Data were obtained from the Belgian Health Interview Survey 2018 (N = 5831) and 2023-24 (N = 3371), two nationally representative repeated cross-sectional surveys. Analyses were restricted to participants aged 15-64 years. Logistic regression models were used to assess changes over time in vaping, smoking, dual use (both vaping and smoking), and any product use (vaping and/or smoking), including interactions with age group and sex. The use of nicotine-containing e-liquids and disposable devices was also examined. Current vaping increased from 5.0% in 2018 to 7.7% in 2023-24, with the largest increase observed among 15-24-year-olds (OR 3.94 [2.16-7.18]). Current smoking remained relatively stable overall (22.5%-19.8%), with a significant decline among men (OR 0.77 [0.61-0.96]). Dual use increased from 3.6% to 4.4%, particularly among 15-24-year-olds (OR 2.92 [1.39-6.15]). Any product use remained stable overall but increased among 15-24-year-olds (OR 1.61 [1.05-2.46]) and women (OR 1.34 [1.06-1.70]). Most people using e-cigarettes reported using nicotine-containing products (2018: 74.0%, 2023-24: 81.8%), and disposable devices were especially popular among 15-24-year-olds (61.6% in 2023-24). Trends in vaping and smoking differed by age and sex. Rising vaping and dual use among young people, alongside increased overall product use among 15-24-year-olds and women, underscore the need for targeted prevention and continued monitoring.
Institution: Sciensano (Belgium)
Language: English
Field: Medicine
Domain: Health Sciences
Open Access status: gold
Estimated APC paid: $3,181
OpenAlex ID: W7225752280