Guest column: It's a myth that the hubble-bubble is harmless, says Dr Vishal Rao

Hookah bars have proliferated in the city and their targets are youngsters, who consider it "cool" and a style statement to do hookah, much to the concern of parents, schools and teachers. Hookah use is regulated under the Cigarettes and Other Tobacco Products Act (COPTA). But in its current state and usage, it is a health hazard and violates the Act. It is also a known gateway for drug use among youngsters.

Hookah smokers may actually inhale more tobacco smoke than cigarette smokers because of the large volume of smoke they inhale in one session, which can last as long as 60 minutes.

While research on hookah smoking is still emerging, there is evidence that it poses many dangers as the smoke contains high levels of toxic compounds like tar, carbon monoxide, heavy metals and carcinogens. . As with cigarette smoking, hookah smoking is linked to lung and oral cancers, heart disease and other serious illnesses.

Also, the charcoal used to heat tobacco in the hookah increases health risks by producing high levels of carbon monoxide, metals, and cancer-causing chemicals. Even after it has passed through water, the smoke produced by a hookah contains high levels of toxic compounds that could even lead to clogged arteries and heart disease.

There is also the chance of Infectious diseases being transmitted by the sharing of a hookah. And babies born to women, who smoked one or more water pipes a day during pregnancy, have had lower birth weights.

Moreover, consumption of hookah in public places such as restaurants is illegal and punishable under COTPA sections 4,5,6 and 7.

A recent government order issued by the urban development insists on all cafes, eateries, bars and restaurants complying with COTPA and sticking to the terms of their trade licenses. If they don't fall in line their licences could be suspended or even cancelled. A Karnataka high court order also lays down the law on hookah joints.

The need of the hour then is for the BBMP to take cognisance of the matter and act in the interest of public health and protect youth from addictions. Support from the police could help it enforce the law.

Writer is Consultant, Oncologist-Head & Neck Surgeon, HCG Cancer Centre and Member High Powered Committee-Tobacco Control, Government of Karnataka.