The changing perceptions of shisha smoking
| Author(s)
Humera Sarwar
| | Presenter(s) |
Humera Sarwar Final Year Medical Student, Peninsula College of Medicine and Dentistry, University of Exeter | Abstract Shisha smoking has become a common socially acceptable practice amongst young people. There are various factors which have influenced the perception of this activity. Recent research shows that the health implications of shisha smoking are much more serious than expected; cardiovascular and respiratory problems as well as malignancies of the lip, lungs and bladder.
The introduction of Ma’ssel (flavoured sweetened tobacco) is a major factor in the sudden global popularity of shisha smoking. Culture was found to be the most influential in shaping people’s perception of shisha smoking, this perception has evolved significantly over the past few years. The socially permissive attitude towards shisha smoking is largely due to the perceived ‘less harmful’ nature of this activity when compared to cigarettes.
| Source of funding: None
| Declaration of interest: None
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