Potential health risks of hookah smoking are being overlooked by users, concerning toxicologists

"Researchers are finding that people perceive hookah smoking as a safer and healthier means of tobacco use. However, toxicological research is finding elements in hookah smoke that are well-established to cause adverse health effects," says Norbert E. Kaminski, PhD, SOT President 2014-2015.

Studies show that hookah use is associated with potentially dangerous chemicals and health effects:

• Chemicals produced during one hookah smoking session of 45 to 60 minutes can equal those produced by smoking 10 or more cigarettes.
• Hookah use generates carcinogens, such as benzene, and has been linked to lung cancer and loss of lung function.
• Similar peak plasma nicotine levels, greater blood carbon monoxide levels, and much greater inhaled smoke volume were observed from exposure to hookah smoke compared to cigarette smoke.

"Developing comprehensive assessments of any substance's health risks can take years of research," says Dr. Kaminski, "but in the meantime, individuals using hookah water pipes need to be aware of the potential dangers that are already present."

In its new issue statement on hookah smoking, the Society identifies many factors that could impact the health of hookah users, including the inhaled smoke and vapors; secondhand smoke and vapors; and emissions generated from the smoldering charcoal that is used in water pipes.

The report can be found online at: https://www.toxicology.org/pr/Hookah_HowDangerous.pdf