Topography, Constituents, and Toxicity of Waterpipe/Hookah Flavored and Non-Flavored Tobacco Smoke

The popularity of waterpipe or hookah smoking as a behavioral/recreational/social activity is increasing in western countries. Little regulatory science is available to inform the Food and Drug Administration (FDA) on waterpipe tobacco health effects. Appropriate regulatory policy for waterpipe tobacco is currently hindered by the lack of data describing realistic use of these products and the resulting health impacts based on topography, constituents, and toxicology research. We are currently determining the emissions and dosages of waterpipe/hookah (flavored and non-flavored) smoke, and evaluate the effects on pulmonary toxicity. Our study determines the different topographies that can affect the levels of inhaled constituents, thereby causing pulmonary toxicities. The research findings generated from this proposal are expected to provide scientific underpinnings to inform the FDA on the regulation of the manufacture, distribution, and marketing of waterpipe tobacco products to protect public health.

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