According to some experts more than 100 million people worldwide smoke water pipes daily for hours in Asia, Europe and Africa. The water pipes or sheesha is a very common drug which is now spreading like fire in Pakistan. The reason behind this increase is the misperception about sheesha smoking that it is not hazardous to the health since the tobacco is filtered through water before inhalation, so it becomes harmless as they get less content of tobacco as compared to cigarette, and addition of different flavours makes it risk-free for health. But research reports say its a sweet poison which causes throat problems and severe stomach diseases including ulcers and stomach cancer in case of its continuous usage. Hence its drawbacks are more severe than cigarettes.
A recent survey estimated that approximately 70 percent of the Pakistani youngsters have experienced this form of tobacco including boys and girls. Youngsters are using it as fun and just because it has become a latest style. An obvious reason of its popularity is the lack of knowledge about its drawbacks among the youngsters. But the most obvious reason behind the popularity of sheesha is its social acceptability. Parents who prohibit their children from cigarettes, themselves enjoy sheesha with them.
It is easily available at every restaurant, hotel, public places and educational institutions. Many bars have been reported to serve sheesha mixed with illegal drugs like heroine, hashish etcetera. Also at many sheesha spots, it is also available with wine in the filtering base instead of water.
All these realities demand the immediate attention of government, policymakers and healthcare providers to create more awareness against the health hazards associated with sheesha smoking. Its availability and supply should be checked.
MAIMUNA ASHRAF
Rawalpindi
