OFDT data1 published today by Santé publique France2 on tobacco and vaping habits in 2023 confirm an underlying trend: daily vaping continues to grow (6.1% of adults), while daily smoking declines (23.1%).
For FIVAPE, these figures confirm what those working in the field have been observing for several years: vaping helps people quit smoking.
A marked trend among young adults
The data are particularly significant in the 18-24 age group, where there has been a clear drop in daily smoking, alongside a steady rise in vaping. This finding invalidates the idea of a "gateway effect" to tobacco and supports the hypothesis that vaping is a risk-reduction tool, particularly for young adults.
An accessible, less unequal harm reduction tool
Unlike tobacco, vaping affects all social categories, making it a more equitable public health lever. It gives millions of smokers access to a less harmful alternative, particularly in highly addictive or precarious situations.
FIVAPE calls for decisions consistent with scientific data
FIVAPE calls on the public authorities to take note of these objective data and to:
- Preserve controlled, informed access to vaping, particularly in the context of the fight against smoking;
- Promote clear, non-anxiety-provoking information for adult smokers on the uses and potential benefits of electronic cigarettes;
- Encourage protective regulations that guarantee product quality while maintaining innovation and proximity to users.
Conclusion: an opportunity to be seized
At a time when France has set itself the goal of a "tobacco-free generation", it's time to recognize the role of vaping as an ally in this ambition. The expertise of vaping professionals, united within FIVAPE, remains at the disposal of the authorities as we work together to build an evidence-based harm reduction policy.
- TRENDS - Smoking and vaping among 18-75 year olds in 2023 - https://www.ofdt.fr/sites/ofdt/files/2025-05/tendances_168_0.pdf ︎
- Press release - Smoking and vaping among 18-75 year olds in 2023 - https://www.santepubliquefrance.fr/presse/2025/tabagisme-et-vapotage-parmi-les-18-75-ans-en-2023 ︎
