Water pipe smoking among the young: the rebirth of an old tradition

Abstract

This article provides information on the growing threat of water pipe smoking (hookah) around the world and in the United States. Historically an activity of Middle Eastern older adults, the most recent growth in water pipe smoking (WPS) has been among adolescents and young adults. Associated with its use is a growing list of health problems. To date no interventions have been specifically designed for this form of tobacco use and they are sorely needed. Nurses must continue to teach No Tobacco Use in any form and that means no water pipe smoking must be part of every health message.