The Risks of Smoking and Hookah Use[Alaina Rumrill] Dr. Najat Saliba, a Professor of Analytical Chemistry and member of the Parliament of Lebanon has a great interest in atmospheric chemistry, focusing part of her research on aerosols [1]. Her research has advanced our understanding of the health risks associated with smoking and hookah use, challenging common misconceptions and shedding light on the dangers posed by these practices. A prevalent myth is that hookah smoke is merely water vapor, but this belief is far from the truth. Dr. Saliba’s research reveals that hookah smoke contains harmful chemicals that are not filtered out by water. Smoking is a major public health issue, responsible for 8 million deaths annually, with 1.3 million of those deaths resulting from second-hand smoke [1]. The prevalence of hookah use, especially among adolescents in developing countries, is alarmingly high. In Lebanon, for instance, a 2018 study reported that 36.9% of adolescents used hookahs, highlighting a significant public health challenge [1]. Formal education about tobacco use faces significant obstacles in many developing countries. Dr. Saliba notes that misconceptions about electronic cigarettes, such as the false belief that they produce only water vapor, are widespread. In reality, e-cigarettes contain liquids with propylene glycol and vegetable glycerin, which, when heated, produce aerosols, not vapor [1].The liquid in electronic cigarettes contains toxic chemicals like propylene glycol and glycerin, which act as nicotine carriers [2]. Nicotine, a highly addictive substance, stimulates the release of adrenaline and dopamine, creating feelings of pleasure and energy [1]. This addictive process can lead to nicotine dependence, making it particularly concerning that over 7,000 different flavors of e-cigarettes are available, many of which are designed to appeal to young people [1].Dr. Saliba’s research debunked the myth that hookahs are a healthier alternative to cigarettes. The toxins inhaled from hookahs can exceed those from cigarettes [1]. Many people mistakenly believe that toxins are dissolved in water because the smoke bubbles through it before reaching the user’s mouth. However, this misconception overlooks that nonpolar substances, like those found in tobacco smoke, do not mix with water [1]. This principle is summarized by, “Like dissolves like,” which explains why nonpolar substances do not dissolve in polar solvents [1].Dr. Saliba highlights the rise of vaping as another critical issue, emphasizing the need for effective education and regulation to combat these health risks. Through her groundbreaking research, Dr. Najat Saliba continues to challenge misconceptions and advocate for clearer understanding and stronger regulation of smoking and vaping products, striving to protect public health and educate future generations [1].Air PollutionDr. Najat Saliba’s research at the American University of Beirut has significantly deepened our understanding of air pollution, highlighting its local and global impacts. Her studies have revealed how regional deserts, particularly the Arabian and African deserts, contribute to episodes of desert dust storms, profoundly affecting air quality in the region [1]. These patterns are crucial for developing effective strategies to mitigate air pollution, especially in areas like Beirut, which frequently experiences these phenomena [1].During episodes of hot weather, characterized by dusty, hazy, and gloomy days, Dr. Saliba investigates the atmospheric chemical reactions that occur [1]. These reactions involve complex interactions between various air pollutants, significantly impacting human health and the environment [1]. Her research also explores how the chemical composition of wind changes as it moves. Initially laden with molecules from the desert, the wind picks up additional pollutants from urban development and cities, transforming its chemical makeup by the time it reaches Beirut [1].The health impacts of air pollution are staggering, with the World Health Organization reporting that 10 million people die annually due to air pollution, which is 1.3 times more than the number of deaths caused by COVID-19 [1]. Air pollution is linked to severe health issues, including lung and heart disease, and cancer, underscoring the urgent need for action [1]. Dr. Saliba emphasizes the importance of a top-down approach to reducing air pollution [3]. This approach advocates for implementing comprehensive rules and regulations to curb pollution effectively [1]. While individual efforts, such as wearing masks and making environmentally conscious choices are valuable, a top-down strategy is essential for achieving significant and rapid improvements in air quality [1].Dr. Saliba’s work underscores the need for collaborative, large-scale solutions to combat air pollution. She stresses that the biggest advancements in reducing air pollution will come from systemic changes in policy and regulation, rather than isolated individual actions [1]. Through her pioneering research and advocacy, Dr. Saliba continues to inspire efforts to tackle air pollution at both local and global levels, working towards a cleaner, healthier environment for future generations.Politics and ScienceDr. Saliba’s journey from researcher to politician underscores her unwavering commitment to addressing air pollution and environmental issues. Her experience in parliament, particularly during the prolonged process of electing a president, highlighted the stark contrast between the worlds of science and politics [1]. In research, discussions are grounded in facts, figures, and data-driven evidence. In contrast, politics often revolves around popularism, emotions, and persuasion [1]. Dr. Saliba has observed that political communication can be more flexible, sometimes involving emotions, insults, and non-facts, which starkly contrasts the precision and rigor of scientific discourse [1].Despite these differences, Dr. Saliba has leveraged her scientific expertise to influence political decisions, particularly those related to environmental protection. She emphasizes the critical need for collaboration to tackle complex issues like climate change [1]. She also highlights the impact of lobbying on regulations, noting the frequent clash between scientific evidence and political interests. Through her work, she strives to connect local and global problems, believing that sharing local experiences on a global stage can foster broader change and understanding [1].Dr. Saliba’s advocacy extends to encouraging youth involvement in environmental protection. She stresses the importance of youth being informed and actively participating in efforts to reduce air pollution, which is intricately linked to climate change. Her message is clear: while local actions are vital, they must resonate globally to effect lasting change [1]. By fostering a two-way exchange of ideas and experiences between local and global communities, Dr. Saliba believes we can address environmental challenges more effectively [1].Her advice to young people and aspiring professionals is to explore different fields, embrace the process, and recognize that success comes from small accomplishments and continuous learning [1]. Dr. Najat Saliba’s journey from the laboratory to the parliament demonstrates that significant progress often requires bridging the gap between science and politics, advocating for evidence-based policies, and fostering global collaboration to protect our planet [1].Learn MoreIf you’d like to hear more about Dr. Najat Saliba’s journey and her journey into chemistry and politics, visit us on Spotify, Apple Podcasts, and many other streaming services to listen to our ChemTalk Podcast with Dr. Najat Saliba, a Professor of Analytical Chemistry at the American University of Beirut and a member of the Parliament of Lebanon.Find the ChemTalk podcast here.Works Cited[1] Saliba, Najat. Personal interview. Conducted by Nina Deng and Yeongseo Son. 9 September 2023.[2] Association, American Lung. “What’s in an e-Cigarette?” American Lung Association. Accessed July 21, 2024. https://www.lung.org/quit-smoking/e-cigarettes-vaping/whats-in-an-e-cigarette .[3] “Top-down Approach.” Top-Down Approach – an overview | ScienceDirect Topics. Accessed July 21, 2024. https://www.sciencedirect.com/topics/earth-and-planetary-sciences/top-down-approach#:~:text=A%20’Top%2DDown%20Approach’,at%20global%20and%20regional%20scales .
