The researchers of Qatar University have declared that shisha smoking or water pipe smoking increases the risk of heart diseases in adults.

Shisha, also known as hookah, is a kind of water pipe used for smoking flavored tobacco.

It originated in the Middle East and has become a social activity across the region.

The researchers made the declaration after a study led by Susu Zughaier, an associate professor of Basic Medical Sciences at Qatar University’s College of Medicine.

READ ALSO: VIDEO: Singer Kizz Daniel quits smoking on 28th birthday

It analysed data from over 1,000 adult participants living in Qatar, according to a statement released by Qatar University on Thursday, April 13.

The researchers found that shisha smokers had 1.65 times higher odds of reporting a diagnosis of cardiovascular disease, compared to non-smokers.

The study also highlighted that starting shisha smoking at a younger age was associated with a higher risk of developing heart diseases.

It made a significant contribution to the understanding of the health consequences of shisha smoking, highlighting the need to address the public health concern in Qatar and other countries.

The Star