There is a common belief that one can chew tobacco, without suffering from ill-effects. But, this is not true. Chewing tobacco can lead to many adverse health effects. So, it is not a healthy alternative to smoking cigarettes.
Chewing tobacco also contains nicotine. Since nicotine is addictive, one experiences severe withdrawal symptoms when one tries to quit tobacco use. Besides, there are numerous adverse health effects that can result due to chewing tobacco. Some of these detrimental effects are detailed below.
Dangers of Chewing Tobacco
- Chewing tobacco for half an hour is equal to smoking four cigarettes. The nicotine in a can filled with chewing tobacco is equal to the nicotine contained in about 60 cigarettes.
- Chewing tobacco can become so addictive that some users chew in their sleep. So, be careful not to become dependent on this product.
- Chewing tobacco is also known as snuff or smokeless tobacco. It hosts more than 25 cancer causing agents, which are known as carcinogens.
- Chewing tobacco can increase the risk of pharynx, throat and oral cancers. These cancers can cause unsightly tumors on the cheeks, mouth, lips and other places on the face. These tumors when surgically removed, cause severe disfigurement of the face.
- A research study has revealed that about 90% of throat and oral cancer patients habitually used chewing tobacco.
- Users of chewing tobacco face about 50 times higher risk of developing oral cancer, compared to non-users.
- Smokeless tobacco is the cause of about 90% of oral tumors.
- Chewing tobacco can cause leukoplakia, which is characterized by irritation of the tongue, gums and the inner part of the cheeks. Leukoplakia can be aggravated by a few foods. Cancerous tumors may occur near areas with leukoplakia.
- Chewing tobacco increases the risk of cardiovascular problems, which cause about 40% of annual deaths. Nicotine increases the blood pressure, which affects the heart, leading to cardiovascular problems.
- Using smokeless tobacco can lead to severe tooth and gum disease. Users are more prone to developing cavities.
- The sugar in smokeless tobacco affects tooth enamel. All these factors weaken teeth, which can fall out.
- Chewing tobacco discolors the teeth and causes bad breath.
