Vaping Among LGBTQ+ Youth: Why the Numbers Are Rising
New research shows LGBTQ+ teens vape more than their peers. Experts point to stress, bullying and targeted marketing as key drivers.
Photo: RainbowNews Editorial
LGBTQ+ teenagers use e-cigarettes more often than other young people. That is the conclusion of several recent studies in the United States and Europe. Researchers link the trend to stress, bullying and social rejection. Public health experts warn that vaping is not a safe habit. It can lead to nicotine addiction and long-term lung damage.
The topic is back in the news this month. New data from the US Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) show that lesbian, gay and bisexual teens are almost twice as likely to vape as their straight peers. Transgender youth report even higher numbers. Doctors say the trend deserves more attention.
What the latest research shows
The CDC's 2024 National Youth Tobacco Survey found that about 12 percent of LGBTQ+ high school students use e-cigarettes. Among straight peers, the number is around 6 percent. A 2023 study in the journal Pediatrics reported similar patterns. Transgender and non-binary teens showed the highest rates of daily use.
European data point in the same direction. A 2023 report by the UK's Action on Smoking and Health (ASH) found that LGBTQ+ young adults were more likely to vape than the general population. Dutch health institute Trimbos has flagged the same trend in the Netherlands.
Researchers stress that vaping is not harmless. Nicotine affects brain development in people under 25. It also raises the risk of switching to regular cigarettes later. The World Health Organization (WHO) warned in 2024 that e-cigarettes are a growing threat to youth health worldwide.
Why LGBTQ+ teens vape more
Experts point to several reasons. Chronic stress is one. LGBTQ+ young people face more bullying, family conflict and social rejection than their peers. Studies show that nicotine is often used to cope with anxiety and low mood. This pattern is known as the minority stress model, first described by psychologist Ilan Meyer in 2003.
Marketing plays a role too. A 2022 study in Tobacco Control found that tobacco companies have targeted LGBTQ+ consumers for decades. Bright flavours, colourful packaging and Pride-themed campaigns appear on social media. Young users often see vaping as trendy and low-risk.
Access matters as well. Vapes are cheaper and easier to buy than cigarettes in many countries. Disposable devices with fruit or sweet flavours are especially popular among teens.
The health risks in plain language
Vaping delivers nicotine through a heated liquid. The vapour also contains chemicals like propylene glycol and flavouring agents. Some of these can irritate the lungs. In 2019, an outbreak of severe lung illness (EVALI) in the US was linked to vaping, mostly to products with vitamin E acetate.
Long-term effects are still being studied. But researchers agree on a few points:
- Nicotine is highly addictive, especially for young brains.
- Regular vaping raises the risk of chronic cough and asthma symptoms.
- Teens who vape are more likely to start smoking cigarettes.
- Mental health can worsen. Nicotine withdrawal increases anxiety.
The American Academy of Pediatrics and the Dutch Longfonds both advise against any use of e-cigarettes by minors.
What parents, teachers and doctors can do
Public health groups say the response should focus on two levels: individual support and better policy. On the personal level, open conversation helps. Teens are more likely to talk about vaping if they feel safe and not judged. Doctors can screen for nicotine use during regular check-ups.
Mental health support matters too. Many LGBTQ+ teens vape to manage stress. Addressing the root cause is often more effective than only telling them to stop. School counsellors and youth organisations like COC Nederland or The Trevor Project offer resources.
On the policy level, experts call for stricter rules on flavoured vapes and online sales. The Netherlands banned most vape flavours in 2024. The UK plans a similar ban in 2025. Early data from these countries will show whether the measures reduce youth use.
Connection to wider LGBTQ+ health
Vaping is one part of a broader health picture. LGBTQ+ young people also report higher rates of depression, anxiety and substance use. Good general care can help across these areas. That includes access to mental health support after difficult experiences and honest sexual health information.
Some readers may also want to know more about other health topics relevant to the community, such as chemsex risks and support options. Talking openly about substance use, including nicotine, is part of good care.
What to do if you want to quit
Quitting vaping is possible, but it can be hard. Nicotine withdrawal often causes irritability, poor sleep and cravings for a few weeks. The following steps are supported by research:
- Set a quit date and tell someone you trust.
- Remove vapes and chargers from your home.
- Ask a doctor about nicotine replacement therapy (patches or gum). These are approved for adults and, in some cases, older teens.
- Use a quitline or app. In the Netherlands, Rookvrij.nl offers free support. In the US, 1-800-QUIT-NOW is available.
- Address stress with exercise, therapy or peer support.
Relapse is common. Most people need several attempts before they stop for good. That is normal and not a failure.
The bottom line
Vaping among LGBTQ+ youth is a rising public health concern. The reasons are complex: stress, marketing and easy access all play a role. The health risks are real but manageable if action is taken early. Open conversation, mental health support and stricter rules on flavoured products are the tools experts recommend. For teens who already vape, help is available, and quitting is possible.