The global epidemic of waterpipe smoking

摘要: In the past decade waterpipe (WP) smoking (a.k.a. hookah, shisha, and narghile) has been steadily spreading among youth around world. The allure of this tobacco use method for can stem from its pleasant smooth smoke, social ambience perception reduced harm. material in review is based on detailed Medline search articles appearing especially two years that are relevance to WP epidemiology, health addictive effects, WP-related control policies. It shows continuing spread worldwide, perhaps represents second global epidemic since cigarette. Available evidence suggests prevalence current (past month) range 6 34% Middle Eastern adolescents, 5%-17% American increasing globally. Studies effects limited by methodological quality, as well novelty relative long latency important smoking-related outcomes. Still, research indicates substantial harmful similar those cigarettes, potential providing a bridge cigarette or relapse. Developing effective interventions curb requires understanding how dependence develops users, it shaped WP's unique features such following; predominantly intermittent with prolonged sessions, preparation time, accessibility, potent sensory cues, convivial experience group use. also assessing policy options factual visible warnings all parts, access indoor restrictions. currently showing signs burgeoning serious implications public worldwide. Investment initiatives understand needs become priority.