The rising use of shisha among Ghanaian youth, particularly those aged 18 to 29, is becoming a serious public health concern. Recent nationwide surveys reveal that 12.7% of young adults in this age group smoke shisha, with a notably higher prevalence among females, where 61.4% of young shisha users are women. This trend is alarming given the well-documented health risks associated with tobacco and nicotine products, including lung cancer, heart disease, stroke, and chronic respiratory conditions.
Several factors contribute to this increase, including misconceptions that shisha is a safer alternative to cigarettes, peer pressure, unemployment, and economic challenges faced by the youth. The popularity of shisha is also linked to social and cultural acceptance in certain urban communities, despite the known dangers. The Ministry of Health and allied agencies have raised alarms, emphasizing the urgent need for stronger regulations, public education, and enforcement of existing tobacco control laws to curb this growing epidemic.
Moreover, the use of shisha among younger adolescents and even children, some as young as 10 to 15 years, highlights the depth of the problem and the risk of early addiction. This situation threatens to reverse gains made in public health and youth development in Ghana.
In conclusion, the rise of shisha smoking among Ghanaian youth represents a multifaceted challenge that requires coordinated action from government, civil society, families, and communities. Public health campaigns must intensify efforts to dispel myths about shisha, enforce tobacco control policies, and provide support for youth to resist nicotine addiction. Without urgent intervention, the health and future potential of Ghana’s youth remain at significant risk.