Comparison of nicotine and carcinogen exposure with water pipe and cigarette smoking.

ABSTRACT:

Background

Smoking tobacco preparations in a water pipe (hookah) is widespread in many places of the world and is perceived by many as relatively safe. We investigated biomarkers of toxicant exposure with water pipe compared with cigarette smoking.

Methods

We conducted a crossover study to assess daily nicotine and carcinogen exposure with water pipe and cigarette smoking in 13 people who were experienced in using both products.

Results

When smoking an average of 3 water pipe sessions compared with smoking 11 cigarettes per day (cpd), water pipe use was associated with a significantly lower intake of nicotine, greater exposure to carbon monoxide (CO), and a different pattern of carcinogen exposure compared with cigarette smoking, with greater exposure to benzene, and

SUBMITTER: Jacob P 

PROVIDER: S-EPMC3650103 | biostudies-literature | 2013 May

REPOSITORIES: biostudies-literature