Many young vapers unaware of nicotine in their devices, study finds
Nearly 40 percent of young people who vape monthly do not know if their e-cigarette contains nicotine, according to a new report from the Trimbos Institute. The findings, which expand on 2023 data, highlight a significant gap in awareness about the addictive substance. Additionally, more than two-thirds of respondents said they do not feel addicted, despite nicotine’s well-documented impact on the brain.
“Young people seem less aware of the nicotine in vapes. This is a serious issue because once addicted, it is very difficult to quit,” said Esther Croes, a tobacco expert at the Trimbos Institute. She added that nicotine use can disrupt brain development in the long term.
The report surveyed Dutch youth between the ages of 12 and 25 who vape at least once a month. While many said they continue vaping because they enjoy it, nearly 40 percent admitted they did not know whether their device contained nicotine. By contrast, young cigarette smokers reported that they continue smoking specifically because of the nicotine content.
Data also show that young people feel more addicted to traditional cigarettes than to vapes. Among those who vape monthly, only 28 percent reported feeling addicted, compared to 50 percent of cigarette smokers. Despite these figures, addiction experts warn that nicotine dependence may develop gradually and that young people may underestimate the difficulty of quitting.
Flavored vapes play a major role in attracting young users, the study found. Many respondents cited flavors as their main reason for starting. Social influence and curiosity were also key factors. The study was conducted before the Dutch government implemented a ban on flavored vapes, which took effect earlier this year.
Croes emphasized that enforcement of the ban is critical. “Unfortunately, young people still have easy access to flavored vapes. That’s why enforcement, which has received additional funding, is now crucial,” she said.
Children hospitalized due to vaping-related illnesses
The health consequences of vaping among young people have raised increasing concern. In 2024, at least 14 Dutch children were hospitalized due to vaping-related illnesses. Some suffered severe complications, including a 15-year-old boy who experienced a major lung hemorrhage and a 15-year-old girl who required intensive care treatment.
RTL Nieuws conducted an investigation into confiscated vapes from 10 secondary schools across the Netherlands. Testing in a specialized laboratory in Liverpool, England, revealed troubling results. Experts described the findings as “extremely concerning,” though specific details of the substances detected were not disclosed.
To curb youth vaping, State Secretary for Youth, Prevention, and Sport Vincent Karremans will present the government’s Action Plan Against Vaping to the Tweede Kamer on March 12. The initiative aims to strengthen enforcement of vaping regulations and prevent young people from becoming addicted to nicotine.
