Brain-derived neutrophic factor in adolescents smoking waterpipe: The Irbid TRY.

BACKGROUND: Brain-derived neutrophic factor (BDNF) and tobacco consumption can affect many body functions and health. However, the relationship of BDNF with waterpipe (Wp) smoking is unknown. Therefore, the current study examined the relationship between Wp smoking and BDNF in adolescents.

METHODS: Self-reported tobacco consumption and serum BDNF were determined in 195 waterpipe and 288 nonsmokers in 7th-10th grade students.

RESULTS: Stepwise regression that included Wp smoking, gender, BMI, and location, showed that only Wp smoking (p < 0.0001) and gender (p < 0.0001) were related to serum BDNF. In addition, the ANCOVA found a main effect for Wp smoking (p < 0.0001) and gender (p < 0.0001) with lower BDNF in males smoking waterpipe.

DISCUSSION: BDNF was diminished in adolescent Wp smokers, which might predispose adolescents for systematic adverse health and behavioral alterations. These results extend the negative health risks associated with cigarette smoking to that of water-pipe tobacco smoking.