Key Facts About Chewing Tobacco: What You Need to Know

Chewing tobacco, also known as smokeless tobacco or spitting tobacco, is a habit that involves holding tobacco in the mouth, either between the cheek and gum or inside the cheek. It comes in two main forms: snuff and chewing tobacco, often sold in tins or pouches under popular brand names like Skoal and Copenhagen. There's also snus, a type of finely ground snuff originating from Norway and Sweden, typically found in small tins.

Despite its popularity, chewing tobacco contains over 28 cancer-causing chemicals, including tobacco-specific nitrosamines (TSNAs), formaldehyde, and arsenic. Some believe snus is safer because it's steam-heated instead of fermented during production, but it still contains harmful chemicals. Nicotine, found in all tobacco products, is absorbed more slowly from chewing tobacco but remains in the bloodstream longer, contributing to addiction.

It's essential to understand that chewing tobacco isn't a safer alternative to smoking cigarettes. While e-cigarettes deliver nicotine without burning tobacco, they still pose health risks and can lead to addiction. Making informed choices about tobacco use can significantly impact your health and well-being.

What are the health risks of chewing tobacco?

Chewing tobacco poses several health risks due to its high content of harmful chemicals and nicotine. These risks include an increased likelihood of developing various types of cancer, particularly oral cancer, due to exposure to carcinogens found in tobacco products.

Additionally, chewing tobacco can lead to gum disease, tooth decay, and other oral health issues. Nicotine, a highly addictive substance present in chewing tobacco, can contribute to addiction and dependence, making it challenging to quit. Furthermore, chewing tobacco use is associated with an increased risk of heart disease, high blood pressure, and stroke.

Is chewing tobacco safer than cigarette smoking?

Chewing tobacco is often perceived as a safer alternative to cigarette smoking because it doesn't involve inhaling smoke directly into the lungs. However, it's essential to recognize that chewing tobacco still poses significant health risks.

While it may not carry the same risk of lung cancer as smoking, it increases the likelihood of oral cancer, gum disease, and other health issues. Additionally, chewing tobacco contains nicotine, a highly addictive substance that can lead to dependence and cardiovascular problems. In a word, while chewing tobacco may present different health risks compared to smoking, it's not considered a safe or healthy alternative.

What treatments are available to help people quit using chewing tobacco?

It's essential for individuals interested in quitting chewing tobacco to consult with a healthcare professional to determine the most appropriate treatment plan based on their individual needs and preferences. Combining multiple strategies, such as counseling, medication, and support groups, can increase the likelihood of successful tobacco cessation.

Behavioral Counseling: Counseling sessions with healthcare professionals or trained counselors can provide support, guidance, and strategies to quit chewing tobacco successfully.

Nicotine Replacement Therapy (NRT): NRT products, such as nicotine gum, patches, lozenges, or nasal sprays, deliver controlled doses of nicotine to help reduce withdrawal symptoms and cravings. These products can be used as part of a structured cessation program under the guidance of a healthcare provider.

Prescription Medications: Certain medications, such as bupropion (Zyban) and varenicline (Chantix), are FDA-approved for tobacco cessation. These medications work by reducing nicotine cravings and withdrawal symptoms, making it easier to quit tobacco use.

Support Groups: Joining support groups or attending tobacco cessation programs can provide peer support, encouragement, and accountability during the quitting process. These groups offer a sense of community and shared experiences, which can be valuable for individuals trying to quit chewing tobacco.

Alternative Therapies: Some individuals may find success with alternative therapies, such as acupuncture, hypnotherapy, or mindfulness-based techniques. While the evidence for these approaches varies, they may be beneficial as part of a comprehensive quit plan for some individuals.