Many people often times think that hookah or bong smoking is less harmful than smoking cigarettes. 

But, a new study published in the journal Respirology reveals that hookah or bong smoking affects lung function and respiratory symptoms as much as cigarette smoking.

Researchers compared lung function and respiratory symptoms among water pipe smokers, deep or normal inhalation cigarette smokers, and non-smokers.

Nearly 200 water pipe smokers, deep inhalation cigarette smokers, normal inhalation cigarette smokers and non-smokers participated in the study. 

Researchers questioned the participants to assess the prevalence and severity of respiratory symptoms and lung function tests performed on smokers and control subjects using a spirometer.

Researchers said the findings reveal that there were profound effects of water pipe smoking on lung function values, which were similar to the effects observed in deep inhalation cigarette smokers.

Results showed an increased prevalence and severity of respiratory symptoms among water pipe smokers and cigarette smokers. Similar effects of water pipe smoking and deep inhalation cigarette smoking on respiratory status were found.

Wheezing was present in 23 percent of water pipe smokers, in 30 percent of deep inhalation cigarette smokers and 21.6 percent of normal inhalation cigarette smokers. 

Chest tightness was present in 36.8 percent of water pipe smokers, in 40 percent of deep inhalation cigarette smokers and 29.4 percent of normal inhalation cigarette smokers. 

Cough was present in 21 percent of water pipe smokers, 36.7 percent of deep inhalation cigarette smokers and 19.6 percent of normal inhalation cigarette smokers. 

Wheezing, chest tightness, and cough only occurred in non-smokers 9.1 percent, 13.3 percent and 6.8 percent respectively.

The researchers said this is the first study to report the importance of the method of cigarette smoke inhalation with respect to effects on the respiratory system.