Patterns and Trends of Hookah Use among New Jersey Youth: New Jersey Youth Tobacco Survey 2008-2014.

OBJECTIVES: In this study, the aim was to document trends of ever, past 30-day, and frequent (use on > 10 days/month) hookah use among New Jersey (NJ) high school students.

METHODS: Data were analyzed from the 2008-2014 waves of the NJ Youth Tobacco Survey, a biennial survey of public high school students in grades 9-12 with a mean age of 15 years. Multivariable logistic regressions assessed trends and correlates of hookah use. Descriptive statistics were used to summarize the use of cigarettes, electronic cigarettes, and other tobacco products (including cigars, smokeless tobacco, and bidis).

RESULTS: In 2014, past 30-day hookah use (11.8%) was as high as e-cigarette use (12.1%) and higher than other tobacco products. The adjusted odds of ever, past 30-day, and frequent hookah use were significantly higher in 2014 than 2008. Past 30-day hookah use was more common among users of other tobacco products.

CONCLUSIONS: Effective strategies have been used in cigarette tobacco control, and cigarette consumption has decreased as a result. Similar strategies should be employed to encompass emerging tobacco products, with necessary modifications to reduce the prevalence of all tobacco use among youth.