The latest survey by Thailand’s Department of Health Services Support (DHSS) reveals that the highest usage rate is among those aged 19–25, followed by the 16–18 and 13–15 age groups, with the average age of new users starting at just 13 years old. The survey found that 45.56% of adolescents tried vapes due to peer influence, with social media also playing a significant role in fueling this trend. Facebook and TikTok are the primary channels for vape advertising.
Key Findings:
- Vape Use Among Younger Age Groups: A nationwide survey by Thailand’s Department of Health Services Support (DHSS) indicates a trend toward younger age groups using vapes, with the youngest new users being only 6 years old.
- Peer Pressure as Primary Factor: The survey revealed peer pressure as the main driver for adolescent vape use, with 45.56% of respondents stating they tried vapes due to friends’ influence.
- Social media’s role: Social media significantly influences vape exposure and dissemination, with Facebook and TikTok being the primary advertising platforms (27.88% and 27.60%, respectively).
- Age distribution: Users aged 19-25 constitute the largest demographic (37.62%), followed by those aged 16 to 18 (29.26%) and 13 to 15 (22.39%).
- Insufficient public awareness: The survey revealed a widespread lack of public understanding regarding the harms of vapes, an issue requiring urgent attention and resolution.
September 5, 2025 – According to a September 4 report by the Bangkok Post. A recent nationwide survey by Thailand’s Department of Health Services Support (DHSS) indicates an alarming trend of vape use among children and adolescents, with the youngest new users as young as 6 years old.
Peer pressure is considered one of the primary reasons adolescents begin using vapes, with 45.56% of respondents stating they tried vapes due to influence from friends.
Dr. Panuwat Panket. Director-General of the Department of Health Services Support, stated that the department’s Health Education Division conducted an online survey earlier in 2025, involving 40,344 Thai adolescents. The survey collected data on their vape usage.
The data revealed that the highest proportion of vape users was in the 19-25 age group, accounting for 37.62% of the total. This was followed by adolescents aged 16-18 at 29.26%, and those aged 13-15 at 22.39%.
He further noted that the survey also found the average age of initiation for new users was 13 years old, with the youngest recorded user being 6 years old.
Furthermore, the survey highlighted key factors driving this behavior.
Social media played a significant role in vape exposure, with Facebook being the primary platform for vape advertising at 27.88%, followed closely by TikTok at 27.60%.
Overall, the survey revealed a lack of awareness regarding the harms of vapes.
