ISLAMABAD: A new survey by the Endit Foundation has found that many smokers who use vaping products report cutting down on cigarette consumption, while researchers have also raised concerns about weak regulation and underage access to vaping products in Pakistan.

The report, Vaping Voices: Exploring Tobacco Harm Reduction in Lahore, was launched at the National Press Club in Islamabad. Described by the organization as Pakistan’s first dedicated survey on vaping behavior, the study examines how vape users are using electronic cigarettes and their perceptions of smoking-related harm.

Conducted in September 2025, the survey gathered responses from 1,710 current and former vape users recruited through 100 vape shops across 10 major commercial markets in Lahore. Participants were asked about their smoking history, quit attempts, health experiences, risk perceptions, and reasons for using vaping products.

The findings come amid growing concern over the health and economic burden of tobacco use in Pakistan. According to figures cited in the report, tobacco-related illnesses claim more than 163,500 lives annually, while economic losses linked to tobacco use were estimated at Rs615 billion in 2019 and could rise significantly in the coming years.

Majority reported reducing cigarette consumption

Among the 1,058 respondents who said they had previously smoked cigarettes, 60% reported that vaping helped them reduce cigarette use. Of those, 53% described the reduction as significant, while 7% said it was moderate.

The survey also found that 13% of respondents with a smoking history had completely stopped smoking cigarettes during the previous 12 months. Researchers said 140 participants reported switching entirely from cigarettes to vaping products, with 94% making the transition within six months of starting vaping.

In addition, 65% of respondents said they had either attempted to quit smoking through vaping or were planning to do so.

Mixed perceptions of vaping risks

The report found varying views on the health risks associated with vaping. When participants were asked whether vaping is safe, 26% agreed. However, support increased to 39% when respondents were asked whether switching from smoking to vaping could reduce smoking-related health risks.

Endit Foundation Chief Executive Officer Dr. Ziauddin Islam said the findings point to a need for greater public awareness and evidence-based information regarding vaping and tobacco harm reduction.

Calls for stronger oversight

Researchers also highlighted concerns about the enforcement of age restrictions on vaping products. According to the report, many respondents reported little or no interaction with measures designed to prevent underage access.

Based on its findings, the Endit Foundation urged the federal government, the Ministry of National Health Services, and relevant regulators to establish a clear framework for vaping products, strengthen age-verification requirements, improve public information efforts, and support evidence-based tobacco control measures.

The Endit Foundation is an Islamabad-based public health organization that focuses on research and advocacy related to tobacco harm reduction and reduced-risk nicotine products in Pakistan.