More than 90% of Nizhny Novgorod residents support a ban on vapes, social survey participants found out.

      April 10, 2026 14:15 Society More than 90% of Nizhny Novgorod residents support a ban on vapes — this is the result of a large-scale sociological study in which social pollsters surveyed over 22,000 people. This allowed for an objective picture of attitudes towards health issues, harmful habits, and demographics.

      A total of 80.3% of respondents expressed full support, while another 10.8% are more likely to support it. In total, more than 91% of survey participants approve of the initiative.

      Sociologists note that this is not just about a specific initiative. In their opinion, the results reflect a general societal demand for a healthier environment and a reduction in the prevalence of harmful habits.

      Roman Golubin, Dean of the Faculty of Social Sciences at Lobachevsky NNGU, emphasized that the high level of support reflects a growing demand for health protection, especially among young people.

      "People see the risks and are ready to support measures aimed at reducing them. At the same time, it is important to understand that mere prohibitions are not enough — comprehensive work is needed, including the development of healthy alternatives and the formation of a culture of responsible behavior," he noted.

      The social pollsters also learned about Nizhny Novgorod residents' attitudes towards harmful habits. 63% of survey participants consider their prevalence to be a serious social problem, while only 13% do not see it as a significant threat, and another 21% found it difficult to answer.

      A separate block of questions concerned alcohol and tobacco consumption. The majority of respondents believe that the situation has gradually improved over the past five years. Thus, 35% of respondents noted that alcohol consumption has decreased in their surroundings, while 32% report a reduction in smoking. However, about 45% believe that the situation remains unchanged.

      Experts link the positive dynamics of reduced alcohol and tobacco consumption to lifestyle changes and current regional policy measures — limiting the availability of alcoholic and tobacco products, as well as promoting a culture of healthy living.

      At the same time, 40% of respondents believe that existing measures are insufficient. This indicates that there is a demand for further steps in the field of prevention.

      Among the most effective measures, residents cite the promotion of a healthy lifestyle (44.1%), the development of sports infrastructure (43.5%), raising the legal age for alcohol sales (43%), and restricting places of sale (41.7%). Proposals to increase the cost of alcohol received less support. Experts explain this by concerns about a potential rise in the illegal market.

      Particular concern among respondents is the spread of vapes among young people. Despite being positioned as a "safer alternative," they contain nicotine, which is addictive, as well as toxic substances, including heavy metals and carcinogens. Therefore, limiting their sale is seen as part of a comprehensive policy to protect the health of the younger generation.

      It is worth noting that last year, the governor of the Nizhny Novgorod region, Gleb Nikitin, appealed to President Vladimir Putin with an initiative to restrict the sale of vapes at the federal level. The president supported the proposal. Federal authorities are currently considering a complete ban on the production, import, and sale of vapes in Russia.

      Additionally, at the governor's initiative, large-scale inspections of retail outlets for illegal vape sales are being conducted in the region. Special attention is given to stores located within 100 meters of educational institutions. Violators are fined, and in repeated cases, the establishment may be closed by court order. In the region, 550 stores have already ceased the sale of vapes.

      Experts emphasize that in the context of demographic challenges, it is important not only to stimulate birth rates but also to maintain people's health, increase life expectancy, and create conditions for active longevity. Lifestyle, physical activity, and the rejection of harmful habits largely determine the quality of life.

      The data obtained during the study is planned to be used in adjusting regional programs in the fields of healthcare, prevention, and social policy. It should be added that reducing the prevalence of smoking and forming a culture of healthy living are part of the national project "Sustained and Active Life."

      In the "Social Pollster" project, which ensures direct contact with residents, it is noted that daily work with citizens' appeals helps to form an objective picture of public sentiment and use it in management decision-making.

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