New study explores cardiovascular risks of secondhand hookah smoke

Newly funded research from UCLA School of Nursing led by Assistant Professor Mary Rezk-Hanna, PhD, NP-C, FPCNA, FAHA, FAAN, is examining the short-term cardiovascular effects of secondhand exposure to flavored hookah smoke. The study focuses on whether chemicals released during hookah smoking sessions can impact human cardiovascular health.

Often perceived as a less harmful alternative to cigarettes, emerging evidence suggests that hookah smoke may carry significant health risks – not just for users, but also for those in the immediate vicinity. Using a randomized crossover design, this community health–focused study will compare vascular and autonomic responses in healthy young adults following controlled exposure to hookah smoke and traditional cigarette smoke. The study integrates both in-vivo and ex-vivo approaches to investigate early indicators of cardiovascular dysfunction, such as impaired endothelial function and altered autonomic tone. 

“Flavored hookah smoking continues to gain popularity, especially among adolescents and young adults, yet the risks to nearby non-smokers remain poorly understood” said Dr. Rezk-Hanna. “Our goal is to generate translational evidence to inform public health protections and regulatory policies aimed at reducing exposure in both social and residential environments.”

The three-year study is being funded by the Tobacco Related Disease Research Program, an initiative administered by the University of California, Office of the President.