Is shisha smoking less harmful than cigarette smoking?

No, shisha (hookah) smoking is not less harmful than cigarette smoking. Both shisha and cigarettes contain many harmful chemicals and nicotine, which is addictive, exposing smokers to serious and similar health risks. In fact, a single session of shisha smoking can involve inhaling a volume of smoke far greater than what a cigarette smoker inhales from a single cigarette.

Components of Shisha and Cigarettes and Their Effects

Both shisha and cigarettes contain nicotine, a highly addictive substance [1]. In addition to nicotine, shisha smoke contains many of the harmful components found in cigarette smoke, such as tar and heavy metals. Furthermore, the charcoal used to heat shisha tobacco produces high levels of carbon monoxide, metals, and cancer-causing chemicals, which increases health risks [2].

Some believe that passing smoke through water in a shisha reduces its toxicity, but this is a misconception. Water does not effectively filter the smoke, and the smoke produced by shisha remains loaded with high levels of toxic agents even after passing through the water [2].

Similar Health Risks

Shisha smoking is linked to many of the same health issues caused by cigarette smoking. Shisha smoking increases the risk of developing certain types of cancer, including lung, bladder, and oral cancer [2]. It can also negatively affect lung health, and the sweeteners and flavorings in shisha tobacco may increase the risk of exposure to smoke-related toxins [2].

Additionally, shisha smoking can lead to an increased risk of heart disease, as shisha and its smoke contain various toxic agents that can cause clogged arteries and heart conditions [2].

Secondhand Smoke Exposure

The harm is not limited to the smoker; the secondhand smoke produced by shisha also poses a health risk to non-smokers. This smoke contains harmful chemicals from the tobacco and the shisha's heat source (such as charcoal) [2]. Secondhand smoke can cause heart disease and lung cancer in adults, and it increases the risk of ear infections, colds, pneumonia, and severe asthma attacks in children [1].

Quitting Smoking

There is no safe level for tobacco use in any form. Even smoking one cigarette a day over a lifetime can cause smoking-related diseases and premature death [1]. Quitting all tobacco products is the most important step for improving health and reducing risks [2]. Quitting smoking can reduce the risk of health problems and add years to your life. The earlier you quit, the greater the benefit [1].

If you are looking for help to quit smoking, you can visit the page on Comprehensive health harms of smoking and effective cessation strategies (Arabic) for additional information and support. Free resources, including counseling and medications, are available to help people successfully quit smoking [3].

Medical references

• Smoking
• Hookahs
• Cigarette Smoking