Teen Girls Surpass Boys in Vaping Rates, Reversing Historic Trends

Researchers from the Medical University of South Carolina have revealed that American teenage girls are now more likely to vape regularly than boys. The study, tracking adolescent nicotine use between 2014 and 2024, confirms that a historic demographic shift has taken root across the United States.

Historically, men and boys consumed nicotine products at higher rates than women and girls. However, data drawn from the youth cohort of the Population Assessment of Tobacco and Health (PATH) study indicates that girls have held the lead in regular vaping since 2021, with the divergence widening most noticeably among older teens.

Tracking the Decade-Long Shift in Adolescent Vaping

The research examined individuals aged 12 to 17 who maintained an established vaping routine, rather than casual experimenters. Because the figures rely on self-reported surveys, investigators believe the estimates understate actual consumption levels.

“These aren’t youth who simply tried vaping once or twice,” said study author Brandon Sanford. “We’re talking about adolescents who are regularly using e-cigarettes now.”

Demographic Group (Ages 15–17)	2021 Regular Vaping Rate	2024 Regular Vaping Rate
Teen Girls	4.9%	7.8%
Teen Boys	—	4.6%

Between 2014 and 2018, boys regularly vaped more often than girls. That gap vanished around 2018 and 2019 following the rapid arrival of slim, rechargeable pod devices utilizing nicotine salt formulations. By 2021, girls had surpassed boys.

Public Health Wins and Lingering Nicotine Risks

Alongside the vaping data, the report highlighted a sharp decline in combustible tobacco use. Less than 0.5% of both boys and girls reported regular cigarette smoking, a milestone the research team categorized as a major health achievement.

Even so, the physiological impacts of nicotine remain problematic for youth. Nicotine alters neurological development in adolescents, creating pathways for dependency. Researchers emphasized the need for further inquiry into whether targeted marketing, social media dynamics, or behavioral motivations sparked the shift toward girls.

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Matthew Ma

Marketing at Ecigator

With over a decade of experience in the e-cigarette industry, Matthew Ma is a seasoned expert in both the manufacturing and usage aspects of vaping products. His extensive background has provided him with a deep understanding of the intricacies and evolving dynamics of e-cigarettes.