Waterpipe tobacco smoking among university students in Turkey

INTRODUCTION: Waterpipe tobacco smoking is common among adults in numerous Mediterranean countries. Waterpipe cafes where people are allowed to smoke waterpipe tobacco are an increasingly popular venue for socializing among young people. The aim of this study was to assess the frequency and patterns of waterpipe tobacco smoking among university students in Turkey, as well as their perception on the health-risk of smoking the waterpipe. METHOD: A total of 411 university students in Turkey participated in this study. Participants completed a set of questionnaires to measure frequency, behaviours, and perceptions of the health risks related to waterpipe tobacco smoking. RESULTS: Less than half (38.4%) of the participants smoke waterpipe. Female participants tend to smoke more waterpipe than male participants. The mean age of first smoking waterpipe was 17 years. Waterpipe tobacco smokers perceived the health risks of smoking the waterpipe to be less addictive and exaggerated compared to non-users; smokers also regarded smoking waterpipe tobacco to help them to relax. CONCLUSION: This study provided support that waterpipe tobacco smoking is common among young people in Turkey. There was poor awareness about the risk of waterpipe tobacco smoking among students. Our findings could inform tobacco control in Turkey, especially among young people.