An introduction to the electronic waterpipe

Despite the associated negative health outcomes, waterpipe smoking remains a popular method of tobacco consumption, specifically in young adults. While there have been expanding efforts to decrease waterpipe use, there is a new, non-combustible waterpipe device on the market, the electronic waterpipe (e-waterpipe), that could serve as an alternative to traditional, combustible waterpipe smoking. There is currently no known literature evaluating the e-waterpipe including prevalence of use or its health risks. This mini review defines the e-waterpipe, explains how an e-head is used to construct an e-waterpipe, and describes the various e-head models available for use. The review also discusses implications of e-head use and provides recommendations for future research and regulation. •This is the first known review introducing and describing the e-waterpipe.•An e-waterpipe is a non-combustible replacement to combustible waterpipe smoking.•There is no known literature evaluating prevalence or safety of e-waterpipe use.•When using an e-waterpipe, e-liquid is vaporized via an e-head.