Smoking and vaping seem to dominate the headlines when it comes to the adverse effects of tobacco, but tobacco takes on many shapes and forms. Take smokeless tobacco like chewing tobacco for instance. Despite what some might suggest, smokeless tobacco is not a safe alternative to smoking. In fact, smokeless tobacco poses many of the same health risks including addiction primarily brought on by the presence of nicotine. Here’s a closer look at smokeless tobacco and its health risks.
What is Smokeless Tobacco?
Put simply, smokeless tobacco encompasses items such as chewing tobacco, snuff, and dissolvable tobacco.
Why do people choose to use smokeless tobacco, you ask. Some common reasons are:
- to help them quit smoking; however, there is no evidence to support this idea
- the taste
- an apparent addiction
- smokeless tobacco may be more appealing to new users
Health Risks Associated with Smokeless Tobacco
1.) Cancer
As is apparent with all tobacco products, smokeless tobacco contains various cancer-causing ingredients. These ingredients can potentially lead to several different types of cancer including oral cancers, pancreatic cancer, and esophageal cancer.
2.) Cardiovascular Issues
Smokeless tobacco much like any other form of tobacco can have a detrimental side-effect on your heart and circulatory system. According to the American Cancer Society, there is scientific evidence which links smokeless tobacco to an increased risk of heart disease and stroke.
3.) Oral Health & Hygiene Issues
Since smokeless tobacco like chewing tobacco is enjoyed orally, it should come as no surprise that it can cause significant negative heath effects such as cancer, leukoplakia, gum disease, and erythroplakia while also wreaking havoc on your oral health by leading to issues like bad breath and stained teeth.
4.) Pregnancy Problems
Smokeless tobacco can cause pregnant women to experience serious health issues like stillbirth or premature birth.
5.) Potential Poisoning
Believe it or not, smokeless tobacco can be very dangerous to children. In fact, one study found there were over 120,000 reports of child-related nicotine poisoning between 2001 and 2016. The research also found these numbers to be low due to underreporting.
Final Thoughts
When it comes to tobacco, consumption is a choice. Tobacco is not a need, rather it’s a want driven by addiction. While quitting is not an easy task, it isn’t impossible and there are a plethora of resources to help you kick the habit. If you value your health and wellness, you will seriously consider giving up tobacco altogether.
Source:
VeryWell Health
Steph Coelho
September 11, 2022
Health, Wellness, & Restoration 