SMOKELESS TOBACCO
The two types of smokeless tobacco are moist snuff and loose leaf. Moist snuff is finely chopped tobacco that is stuck between the cheek and gum where nicotine is absorbed into the capillaries. Loose leaf consists of larger sections of leaf that are chewed to allow the nicotine-laden juice to be absorbed. When chewed, it takes 3-5 minutes for nicotine to affect the central nervous system; however, more nicotine reaches the bloodstream with smokeless tobacco and, therefore, the rush is somewhat more intense. 
Despite the known health consequences of tobacco, "chewing" is not viewed by users as particularly dangerous and is erroneously perceived as a "less harmful" alternative to smoking by much of the public. The effects of chewing are almost identical to the effects of smoking. Unfortunately, sales of smokeless tobacco have increased 52 percent since 1980. Many adult smokers have switched to smokeless tobacco because of negative attitudes and social limits that have developed in relation to smoking. Among high school students, peer influence was the reason most frequently cited in the decision to begin using smokeless tobacco. In addition, skillful advertisers feature entertainers and sports personalities and the "macho" western image to transform a habit previously considered dirty and unsociable into one viewed as attractive and healthful. Many male athletes may be influenced by the suggestion that smokeless tobacco enhances overall athletic performance. On the contrary, researchers have found evidence that use of tobacco actually hinders athletic performance. Smokeless tobacco, in conjunction with other substances, particularly alcohol, is considered to be the primary risk factor for cancer of the mouth and throat. Leukoplakia is a condition that includes leathery white patches, and sometimes lesions in the mouth. It develops inside the mouth as a result of direct contact with, and continued irritation by, tobacco juice and is linked to cancer. Researchers have found oral lesions in smokeless tobacco users who practice the habit daily for as little as 3 1/2 years. In addition, since blood vessels are constricted when chewing, smokeless tobacco users risk the health hazard of circulatory problems leading to heart attack or stroke. Smokeless tobacco has also been linked to suppressed immunologic response and cancer of the urinary bladder and pancreas. Tobacco users also have less of a sense of taste and smell. The result is more of a need to salt and sugar food, both of which are unhealthy when used in excess. In addition, dental problems such as receding gums, greater wear and tear on tooth enamel and more tooth decay develop. These often cause bad breath and discolored teeth. Physical and psychological addiction to nicotine occurs at the same rate for people who chew as for those who smoke. One in 3 people who try nicotine in any form will become addicted.
For additional information about smokeless tobacco, contact the American Cancer Society, located at 123 South Sparks Street in State College or call (814) 238-8908. |
Updated December 9, 2002