Persistent use of hookah smoking among Iranian women: A qualitative study

INTRODUCTION: Hookah smoking is the most common method of tobacco smoking among Iranian women and its rate has significantly increased over the past few decades. This study aimed to explore reasons behind persistent use of hookah smoking among Iranian women. METHODS: This qualitative study was conducted from December 2014 to March 2016. Participants were 38 Iranian women living in Tehran, the capital of Iran. They were hookah smokers at the time of this study or at least had a history of its use. Data were collected using semi-structured face-to-face interviews and were analyzed using the qualitative content analysis method. RESULTS: The main factors for persistent use of hookah smoking from the perspective of women were entertainment, a pretext to gather with old friends and family members, and a method for the creation of social networks. Hookah smoking has been described as entertainment and fun. CONCLUSIONS: Strategies aimed to curb the social issue of hookah smoking by women need to focus on the provision of appropriate entertainment methods with the consideration of advantages, such as gathering with friends and family members and consolidating relationships.