Shisha Craze Alarms Health Experts in Calabar as Young Women Risk Addiction and Disease

Rising hookah use among students sparks concern over nicotine dependence and public health risks in Cross River

A growing wave of shisha smoking among young women in Calabar, Cross River State, is raising alarm among health experts, educators and community leaders, as concerns mount over addiction, risky behaviour and long-term health consequences.

Shisha — flavoured tobacco mixed with molasses and smoked through a water pipe — has become increasingly popular in nightclubs, hotels and private spaces across the city. Many of the users are said to be students between the ages of 15 and 30.

Public health advocates warn that the trend is far from harmless. Medical research shows that a single extended shisha session can expose a user to smoke volumes comparable to more than 100 cigarettes, increasing the risk of nicotine addiction, lung disease, heart problems and cancer.

“I can’t do without shisha”

Several young users interviewed admitted to frequent use and described the habit as a source of confidence and pleasure.

“I can’t do without shisha,” said Akpana, a student at a tertiary institution in the northern part of the state. “It boosts my confidence. It is cheaper than cigarettes and more convenient. You can smoke it indoors and nobody even knows.”

Another user, Anne, who was seen behaving erratically on the street before calming down, attributed her mood swings to the substance. “Life is boring. Shisha gives joy,” she said.

Observers say repeated nightly sessions often leave users drowsy, fatigued and vulnerable, with some reportedly engaging in dangerous or exploitative situations to sustain the habit.

Experts warn of deeper social impact

Dr Maureen Ettenma of the Department of Social Works, University of Calabar, described the development as part of a wider pattern of substance use among young people.

“These substances are easily accessible. Some students now prioritise them over basic needs. Despite repeated warnings from university authorities, the message is often ignored,” she said.

She stressed the need for stronger parental involvement, warning that the normalisation of shisha smoking among young girls could worsen if not addressed urgently.

A student leader, Emefiong Jones, blamed peer pressure and the desire to “belong” for the growing trend, urging authorities to clamp down on outlets supplying such products near campuses.

Call for action

Public health worker Edet called for coordinated action by parents, educators and government agencies to prevent the situation from escalating.

“As this spreads, everyone has a role to play to protect these young lives,” he said.

Health professionals continue to emphasise that shisha is not a safer alternative to cigarettes, contrary to popular belief, and warn that the sweet flavours and social appeal may be masking serious health dangers for a new generation of users.