The vaping industry has seen rapid growth over the past decade, with millions of people worldwide choosing e-cigarettes over traditional smoking. But just how many people vape today, and what are the key trends driving this shift? In 2024, it’s estimated that 82 million people across the globe use vaping products, a figure that continues to rise as more people seek alternatives to combustible cigarettes.

The Rise of Vaping

Vaping’s growth has been substantial, with the number of vapers increasing from around 21.3 million in 2012 to over 82 million in 2024. This surge can be attributed to several factors, including the growing perception that vaping is a safer alternative to smoking, particularly in high-income countries. Research suggests that in 2022 alone, there was a 6.3% increase in the number of vapers globally​.

The use of e-cigarettes is most prevalent in wealthier nations, where access to vaping products and the necessary disposable income make vaping a more attractive option. For instance, North America boasts the largest vaping population, with around 18.7 million users, while Europe and the Western Pacific follow closely behind​.

Demographics: Who Vapes?

Vaping is particularly popular among younger adults. In the U.S., 9.4% of adults aged 18-24 report using e-cigarettes. This age group is the most influenced by the perception that vaping is a less harmful alternative to smoking​. Men are also more likely to vape than women, with 4.6% of American men using e-cigarettes compared to 2.8% of women​.

The global distribution of vaping users varies significantly across regions. In high-income countries, approximately 29.3 million people use e-cigarettes, while upper-middle-income countries account for 19 million vapers. In contrast, low-income countries have a much smaller vaping population, with only about 2.1 million users​.

Vaping and Smoking: A Comparison

Despite the rise in vaping, traditional smoking still dwarfs e-cigarette use. There are over 1.18 billion smokers worldwide compared to 82 million vapers, meaning that e-cigarettes make up only 5.8% of the total nicotine user base. However, the appeal of vaping lies in its potential as a harm-reduction tool. Many vapers turn to e-cigarettes as a way to quit or reduce their dependence on traditional tobacco products. A significant number of users see vaping as a less harmful option, especially given the reduced exposure to tar and other harmful chemicals present in cigarette smoke.

Regional Insights

The prevalence of vaping varies widely across different regions. For example, North America and Europe have seen the fastest growth in the vaping market, driven by increasing consumer awareness and the availability of diverse vaping products. In 2021, the U.S. vape market alone was valued at over $10 billion​.

In contrast, countries in Asia and Africa have lower vaping rates, partly due to stricter regulations. For instance, many Asian nations, including Indonesia and Vietnam, have outright bans on e-cigarettes, limiting the growth of vaping in these areas. However, countries like China, which is both the largest producer and consumer of tobacco products, have begun to see a rise in vaping popularity, especially among younger generations.

Why Do People Vape?

The reasons people vape have evolved over the years. Initially, curiosity and the desire to quit smoking were the primary motivators. In a survey, 64% of adults cited curiosity as their reason for trying e-cigarettes, and over half used them as a way to quit smoking. Today, convenience, social influence, and the wide variety of flavors available are significant drivers of vaping. Younger people, in particular, are attracted to vaping because of the perception that it’s more enjoyable and socially acceptable than smoking.

The Future of Vaping

As the vaping industry continues to grow, the debate over its long-term health impacts remains heated. Many experts believe that while vaping is safer than smoking, it is not without risks. Nevertheless, with vaping continuing to rise, particularly in countries where smoking rates are still high, it could play a crucial role in reducing the global burden of smoking-related illnesses.

In conclusion, vaping has become a global phenomenon, with 82 million users worldwide as of 2024. While smoking remains far more prevalent, vaping offers a promising harm-reduction tool for millions of people looking to quit traditional cigarettes. As the industry evolves, continued research and regulation will be necessary to ensure that vaping remains a safer alternative for those who need it.