Nowadays, shisha, or water pipe, is quite popular amongst the youth of Karachi. Many lounges are operating all over the city, even though the authorities have taken steps to outlaw its usage.

Experts have identified the leading factors responsible for the rise of water-pipe usage among the youth. These include peer pressure, mental and physical stress due to economic conditions, depression due to educational pressure, unemployment and the modern lifestyle.

According to experts, peer pressure is one of the most influential factors for youth to start smoking. Generally, a young individual gets involved in such activities to get fame amongst his peer group. However, such consumption can turn into a lifelong habit.

The water pipe has been popular in Persia, India, and Arab countries for centuries. But in the modern age, shisha is all the rage in urban centres. It contains fruit-scented tobacco flavours, which are burnt by using coal passed through an ornate water vessel and inhaled through a hose.

The popular misconception about it is that this form of smoking is not harmful. But according to research it has more risks of serious diseases such as cancer and cardiovascular and renal ailments in the long run. In simple words, it is more dangerous than smoking cigarettes.

Various surveys conducted by different institutions show that it has harmful effects on the health of both males and females, but the youth continue to use it without realising the serious consequences of its use.

There is a dire need to design awareness programmes in order to wean the youth away from tobacco. We need to take certain steps to educate the youth about the serious effects of smoking, including the use of shisha. We need to talk to them and discuss and listen to their voices and involve them in meaningful activities. Instead of wasting their time, money and health on dangerous substances, the youth should be encouraged to participate in healthy activities such as sports, arts and crafts.

The parents’ role here is critical. They should regularly discuss substance abuse with their children and guide them to stay away from such unhealthy habits. They should spend more time with their children. The stronger the relationship between parents and children, the more impact it will have on their development.

Also, it is vitally important for our institutions to provide a safe and healthy environment for the development of our youth.

Published in Dawn, July 9th, 2014