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Review
. 2010 May-Jun;34(3):275-85.
doi: 10.5993/ajhb.34.3.3.

Waterpipe tobacco smoking: an emerging health crisis in the United States

Caroline Cobb  1 , Kenneth D Ward, Wasim Maziak, Alan L Shihadeh, Thomas Eissenberg
Affiliations
Review

Waterpipe tobacco smoking: an emerging health crisis in the United States

Caroline Cobb et al. Am J Health Behav. 2010 May-Jun.

Abstract

Objective: To examine the prevalence and potential health risks of waterpipe tobacco smoking.

Methods: A literature review was performed to compile information relating to waterpipe tobacco smoking.

Results: Waterpipe tobacco smoking is increasing in prevalence worldwide; in the United States, 10-20% of some young adult populations are current waterpipe users. Depending on the toxicant measured, a single waterpipe session produces the equivalent of at least 1 and as many as 50 cigarettes. Misconceptions about waterpipe smoke content may lead users to underestimate health risks.

Conclusion: Inclusion of waterpipe tobacco smoking in tobacco control activities may help reduce its spread.

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Figures

Figure 1
Figure 1
A Waterpipe Prepared for Tobacco Smoking, Including Perforated Foil Separating the Charcoal from the Tobacco That Has Been Placed in the Head
Figure 2
Figure 2
Percent of Respondents from Locations in Southwest Asia, and North America,, Reporting Lifetime and Past 30-day Waterpipe (WP) Tobacco Smoking
See this image and copyright information in PMC

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