Waterpipe tobacco smoking (shisha) is increasing globally, and is especially prevalent in the Eastern Mediterranean Region. Young people are particularly at risk. Smoking rates can reach 42% among boys and 31% among girls in this Region. This includes smoking shisha, which is more popular among young people than cigarettes.
Over the past 10 years, WHO has accumulated evidence on the increasing prevalence of shisha and its effects on health.
This evidence is presented in the second edition of the WHO Study Group on Tobacco Product Regulation scientific advisory note on waterpipe tobacco smoking. The note provides a more thorough understanding of the health effects of waterpipe smoking for WHO, countries and research entities.
Advisory note on waterpipe tobacco smoking: second edition
Waterpipe tobacco smoking (shisha) is increasing globally, and is especially prevalent in the Eastern Mediterranean Region. Young people are particularly at risk. Smoking rates can reach 42% among boys and 31% among girls in this Region. This includes smoking shisha, which is more popular among young people than cigarettes.
Over the past 10 years, WHO has accumulated evidence on the increasing prevalence of shisha and its effects on health.
This evidence is presented in the second edition of the WHO Study Group on Tobacco Product Regulation scientific advisory note on waterpipe tobacco smoking. The note provides a more thorough understanding of the health effects of waterpipe smoking for WHO, countries and research entities.
Advisory note on waterpipe tobacco smoking: second edition
