Secondhand Effects of Hookah (i.e., Waterpipe) Smoke and Aerosol

Study Summary

In the United States, secondhand smoke is the third leading preventable cause of death. Flavored hookah (waterpipe) tobacco smoking, a highly social activity common in hookah bars, is a key source of SHS exposure. While smoke-free air laws have decreased exposure to secondhand smoke, the majority of laws do not include hookah smoking. Thus, as a social outlet for youth and young adults, hookah smoke exposure may harm non-smokers, including women of reproductive age or pregnant, hookah bar workers, children, and individuals with heart and lung disease. While more is known on the acute effects of active hookah smoking and the literature is emerging on active e-hookah vaping, little is known about the acute vascular effects of secondhand exposure to hookah smoke and aerosol. The study aims to examine the acute effects of secondhand exposure of hookah smoke and aerosol on endothelial and vascular function. Eligible volunteers will be invited to participate in a total of 3 study visits (2-3 hours each): e-hookah aerosol exposure, charcoal-heated hookah smoke exposure and smoke-free room air. Non-invasive blood pressure and blood flow measurements will be taken before and after the exposure sessions.

Primary Outcome

Using ultrasound, FMD of the brachial artery induced by reactive hyperemia, will be used to measure endothelium-dependent vasodilator function. Baseline diameter and velocity will be recorded for 45 seconds and resumed 30 seconds before cuff deflation and continuously for 2 minutes after deflation to obtain true peak vasodilatory response.

Conditions Studied

Interventions

• OTHER Combustible Hookah Smoke
• OTHER Electronic Hookah Aerosol
• OTHER Clean Room Air

Study Locations (1)