The debate has been raging for years over whether hookah (shisha) is less harmful than cigarettes or poses an even greater health risk. Although the common belief is that hookah is less dangerous because the smoke passes through water, medical studies reveal alarming facts about its impact on public health.

Hookah vs. Cigarettes

A single cigarette contains approximately 6 to 10 mg of nicotine and is smoked within 5 to 10 minutes. In contrast, a hookah session lasts about 45 minutes to an hour, during which the smoker inhales massive amounts of smoke—equivalent to smoking over 100 cigarettes, according to the World Health Organization.

Regarding toxic substances, hookah smoke contains high levels of carbon monoxide, heavy metals, and carcinogenic chemical compounds, increasing the risk of heart disease, cancer, and respiratory issues.

Smoking in Lebanon: A Dangerous Social Phenomenon

Lebanon is one of the Arab countries where hookah smoking is most prevalent. It is served in cafés, restaurants, and even homes, forming part of social traditions. Despite laws prohibiting smoking in enclosed public spaces, enforcement remains weak, contributing to the spread of this practice across all age groups, including teenagers.

Statistics indicate that 39.5% of Lebanese adults smoke hookah, with a higher prevalence among women (46.2%) than men (32.7%). Additionally, 34.8% of young people aged 15 to 18 currently smoke hookah, compared to only 11.3% who smoke cigarettes, reflecting the growing appeal of this form of smoking among younger generations.

Although cigarettes are highly harmful, hookah is not a safer alternative—on the contrary, it may be even more dangerous due to the large amounts of smoke inhaled and the prolonged smoking duration. With the increasing popularity of hookah smoking in Lebanon, health risks are rising, making awareness campaigns and stricter law enforcement essential to curbing this deadly trend.