A nationwide survey by Gallup Pakistan has revealed that public awareness about vaping and other new nicotine products remains limited across Pakistan, even as concerns grow about their impact on young people. The findings highlight a gap between usage trends and public understanding, raising questions about health awareness and regulation in a rapidly changing tobacco landscape.
The survey was conducted from September 12 to 23, 2025, and gathered responses from 1,153 adults aged 18 and above from across the country. The results were released on January 5, 2026, offering a timely insight into how Pakistanis perceive electronic cigarettes, vaping devices, and other modern nicotine products.
According to the survey, only 17 percent of respondents said they were aware of electronic cigarettes or vaping devices. Awareness of chewing tobacco and similar nicotine products stood slightly higher at 20 percent. This means a large majority of the population remains unfamiliar with these products and their possible health risks.
Gallup found that awareness levels were higher among urban residents and people from wealthier backgrounds, pointing to an information gap between different social groups. Despite low overall awareness, the survey estimates that more than 1.2 million people in Pakistan currently use vaping devices, suggesting that adoption is growing quietly.
Among respondents who were familiar with vaping, 60 percent said neither they nor anyone they know personally uses such products. Only a small number reported personal use or indirect exposure. Most informed respondents believed vaping is harmful or just as harmful as conventional cigarettes, with many also concerned about second-hand vapor effects.
The survey showed strong concern for young people, who were overwhelmingly identified as the most affected group when it comes to smoking, vaping, and chewing tobacco. Fashion trends and experimentation were cited as key reasons for vaping’s appeal, while flavored chewing tobacco products were widely believed to attract younger users.
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