Focus on Prevention

Electronic Cigarettes (E-cigarettes): Vaping devices come in various shapes and sizes, with some resembling traditional cigarettes, pens, or larger devices. They are designed to be portable and convenient.

E-Liquid or Vape Juice: The liquid used in vaping devices typically contains a mixture of propylene glycol, vegetable glycerin, flavorings, and often nicotine. Some vape juices are nicotine-free.

Heating Element: Vaping devices are equipped with a heating element, often called a coil or atomizer, which is activated when the user inhales or presses a button. The heating element turns the e-liquid into vapor.

Vapor Production: When the e-liquid is heated, it produces a vapor that is then inhaled by the user. This vapor may resemble smoke but is distinct from the combustion process of burning tobacco in traditional cigarettes.

Nicotine Content: Many vaping products contain nicotine, the addictive substance found in tobacco. However, there are nicotine-free options available for those who wish to vape without the addictive component.

Flavors: Vape juices come in a wide range of flavors, including fruit, dessert, menthol, and more. The availability of various flavors has been a point of controversy, especially concerning their appeal to youth.

Regulation: Vaping products are subject to regulations that vary by country and region. Authorities aim to address concerns related to youth access, marketing, product safety, and ingredient transparency.

Intended Use: While some people use vaping as a smoking cessation aid, intending to reduce or quit tobacco use, others may use vaping recreationally or as a social activity.

Health Concerns: The long-term health effects of vaping are still being studied, but concerns have been raised about potential risks, including respiratory issues. Vaping-related lung injuries have also been reported, often associated with the use of illicit or adulterated substances.

Water Pipe (Hookah): A hookah consists of a water pipe with a bowl at the top, a water base, a hose, and a mouthpiece. The bowl holds flavored tobacco, known as shisha or maassel.

Flavored Tobacco (Shisha): Shisha is a type of tobacco mixed with molasses and flavorings. It comes in various flavors such as fruit, mint, or herbal blends. The tobacco is placed in the bowl and heated with charcoal.

Charcoal: Charcoal is used to heat the shisha in the bowl. The heated tobacco produces smoke, which passes through the water in the base before being inhaled through the hose.

Water Filtration: The water in the base serves as a filtration system. It does not make the smoke less harmful, but it may cool the smoke and remove some impurities.

Hose and Mouthpiece: Users inhale the flavored smoke through a hose connected to the hookah. The mouthpiece is the final part through which the smoke is inhaled.

Nicotine Content: Hookah tobacco contains nicotine, an addictive substance found in tobacco. Users can become addicted to nicotine through regular hookah smoking.

Social and Cultural Aspect: Hookah smoking is often a social activity, and hookah lounges or cafes provide a setting for individuals to gather and enjoy the experience together. It is popular in many Middle Eastern, South Asian, and North African cultures.

Perceived Harmlessness: Some individuals perceive hookah smoking as less harmful than cigarette smoking. However, hookah smoke contains harmful substances, including carbon monoxide, heavy metals, and carcinogenic chemicals. Additionally, the water filtration does not eliminate these harmful components.

Health Risks: Despite common misconceptions, hookah smoking poses health risks similar to or even exceeding those of cigarette smoking. It is associated with respiratory problems, cardiovascular diseases, and an increased risk of certain cancers.

Regulation: The regulation of hookah use varies by country and region. In some places, there are restrictions on hookah smoking in public places, similar to regulations for cigarette smoking.