International Repercussions and Regulations
Faced with these major risks, many countries have already taken strict measures against the consumption and sale of shisha. In Africa, for example, countries such as Benin, Mali, Cameroon, Togo, and Senegal have banned shisha. In Qatar, the penalties are particularly severe: smoking shisha can result in a prison sentence of up to six months and a fine of QR 10,000, or approximately €2,800. In France, legislation has banned shisha consumption in all public places since 2006, with the exception of designated smoking rooms, whose surface area must not exceed 20% of the establishment.

Calls for action from health authorities
In light of these findings, the researchers behind the Vietnamese study are urging health authorities to take strong measures to combat the spread of shisha. They recommend banning the substance in public places, educating consumers about the risks involved, and introducing specific taxes—strategies already in place for tobacco in Vietnam.