Smoke is Smoke

All smoke is harmful, whether it comes from commercial tobacco, cannabis (marijuana) or from a hookah pipe (waterpipe). Smoke is smoke.

While it is well known that there is no safe level of commercial tobacco smoke, many are not aware of the health risks associated with exposure to smoke from cannabis or a hookah pipe. Just like tobacco, both produce first- and second-hand smoke.

Cannabis
Smoke from cannabis (marijuana) has been shown to have many of the same toxic chemicals as tobacco such as fine particles, heavy metals and carbon monoxide.⁴ Cannabis smoke also contains THC (delta-9-tetrahydrocannabinol), the chemical responsible for the “high” experienced by users. Breathing in second-hand cannabis smoke could negatively affect the health of those exposed.⁵,⁶

E-Cigarettes

Instead of creating smoke, an e-cigarette (or vapour product) creates a vapour once activated. While e-cigarettes may be safer than regular cigarettes, less harmful doesn’t mean safe. Learn more about e-cigarettes (vapour products) to make an informed decision.

Traditional/Sacred Tobacco

For many First Nations communities, tobacco is a gift given by the Creator, which is respected and honoured. Visit the Indigenous Tobacco Program through Cancer Care Ontario to learn more.

Limit Exposure

Limiting exposure to all sources of smoke (commercial tobacco, herbal shisha and cannabis) is the best way to protect yourself and others from the harmful effects.

• Avoid places where you might be exposed to any kind of second-hand smoke.
• Make your home and car smoke-free.
• Avoid smoking tobacco, herbal shisha or cannabis around of children, pregnant women, older adults and those with health conditions such as asthma, lung and heart disease.
• If you smoke any substance, think about quitting.