Hubbly bubbly, also known as hookah or shisha, has become a popular social activity among young people. Many users believe it is safer than cigarettes because the smoke passes through water and comes in sweet flavours such as mint, grape, and strawberry.

However, this belief is misleading.
Health research shows that hubbly bubbly smoke contains harmful
substances including nicotine, carbon monoxide, tar, and other toxic
chemicals that can damage the body over time.

A typical hubbly session can last between 20 and 80 minutes. During this time, users may inhale large volumes of smoke. Compared to cigarette smoking, hookah use often involves longer sessions and deeper inhalation.

Studies indicate that a single session may expose a user to smoke levels equivalent to smoking dozens, and in some cases up to 100 cigarettes. One of the main health concerns is damage to the respiratory system.

The smoke irritates the lungs and airways, leading to coughing, shortness of breath, frequent chest infections, and reduced lung function over time. Long-term use increases the risk of chronic respiratory illnesses.

Hubbly bubbly also affects the cardiovascular system. Nicotine increases heart rate and blood pressure, while carbon monoxide reduces oxygen levels in the blood. These effects place strain on the heart and increase the risk of cardiovascular disease over time.

Another major concern is cancer risk. Hookah smoke contains carcinogenic substances that are linked to cancers of the mouth, throat, lungs, and oesophagus. The risk increases with frequent or long-term use.

Sharing mouthpieces without proper cleaning can also spread infections such as herpes, tuberculosis, and other oral and respiratory illnesses.

In addition, the charcoal used to heat the tobacco produces high levels of carbon monoxide and other harmful chemicals, especially in poorly ventilated spaces.

Although many people believe that water filters out harmful substances, it only cools the smoke. It does not remove toxic chemicals. As a result, hubbly bubbly remains a form of tobacco use with significant health risks.

Despite its popularity in social settings, hubbly bubbly is not a harmless alternative to cigarette smoking. A single session can expose users to high levels of toxic smoke, sometimes equivalent to smoking dozens of cigarettes.

The risks include respiratory disease, heart complications, and increased cancer risk. Awareness of these dangers is important, especially among young people who may underestimate the long-term health effects.