Thailand's Department of Health Support Services survey shows e-cigarette use is trending towards younger age, with the average age of new users being just 13

Key points:

·The use of e-cigarettes is becoming increasingly popular among minors: A national survey conducted by the Department of Health Support Services (DHSS) in Thailand revealed a trend of younger age groups using e-cigarettes, with the youngest new user being only 6 years old. 

·Peer pressure is a major factor: The survey found that peer pressure is the main driving force behind young people using e-cigarettes, with 45.56% of respondents stating that they tried e-cigarettes because of friends. 

·The role of social media: Social media plays a significant role in the exposure and spread of e-cigarettes, with Facebook and TikTok being the main platforms for e-cigarette advertising, accounting for 27.88% and 27.60% respectively. 

·Age distribution of users: The highest proportion of e-cigarette users falls within the 19 to 25 age group (37.62%), followed by 16 to 18 year olds (29.26%) and 13 to 15 year olds (22.39%). 

·Lack of public awareness: The survey revealed a widespread lack of understanding of the dangers of e-cigarettes among the public, highlighting the need for increased attention and action on this issue.

According to a report by Bangkok Post on September 4, 2025, a nationwide survey conducted by the Department of Health Support Services (DHSS) in Thailand has revealed a concerning trend in the use of e-cigarettes by children and teenagers. The youngest new user was only 6 years old.

Peer pressure is considered to be one of the main reasons why teenagers start using e-cigarettes, with 45.56% of respondents stating that they tried e-cigarettes because of the influence of their friends.

Dr. Panuwat Panket, Director General of the Department of Health Service Support, stated that the department's Health Education Division conducted an online survey earlier this year, with 40,344 Thai adolescents participating. The survey collected data on their use of e-cigarettes.

According to data, the highest proportion of e-cigarette users are in the 19 to 25 age group, accounting for 37.62% of the total. Following them are teenagers aged 16 to 18, making up 29.26% of users, and teenagers aged 13 to 15, comprising 22.39% of users.

He also stated that the investigation found that the average age at which new users start using e-cigarettes is 13, with the youngest recorded age being 6.

In addition, the investigation also highlighted the key factors driving this behavior.

Social media has also played a significant role in the exposure of e-cigarettes, with Facebook being the main platform for e-cigarette advertisements, accounting for 27.88%, followed closely by TikTok at 27.60%.

Overall, the survey revealed a lack of awareness among people regarding the harmful effects of e-cigarettes.