Introduction:
Research indicates that vaping is becoming increasingly popular among Flemish youth. However, there is a lack of recent and detailed data on both vaping and smoking behaviors, as well as the relationship between the two among young people.

Objectives:
The study aims to assess the knowledge, awareness, concerns, understanding, intentions, and behaviors related to smoking and vaping among individuals aged 12 to 26. Additionally, it seeks to clarify the correlation between smoking and vaping within this age group.

Methods:
A quantitative survey was conducted via an online questionnaire. One of the researchers recruited participants aged 12 to 15 through Smartschool ads and school visits, and participants aged 16 to 26 were recruited via online panels.

Results:
The findings reveal a clear link between vaping and smoking. Over half (52%) of young people who vape also smoke traditional tobacco products, such as cigarettes. This is a substantial proportion, considering that 13% of young people are current vapers. Furthermore, 76% of smokers also engage in vaping. The study underscores the significant influence of parental smoking and vaping; children of parents who smoke or vape are far more likely to adopt these behaviors themselves.

Conclusions:
This study contradicts the notion that e-cigarettes help deter young people from smoking traditional cigarettes. There is a strong connection between smoking and vaping, particularly among the youngest group (12 to 15-year-olds), where the barrier to starting vaping is much lower than for smoking.