All the health risks of tobacco chewing you should know: A dangerous addiction with systemic consequences  

Health risks of chewing tobacco: Chewable tobacco contains nicotine, nitrosamines, arsenic, and sometimes lead, carcinogens that can cause mutations and oxidative stress, damaging DNA and the central nervous system (Image: Pexels)

Tobacco chewing is a common addiction with harmful effects on the body. It involves using various forms of tobacco, such as betel quid or 'gutkha,' which are kept in the mouth for extended periods, allowing nicotine and carcinogens to penetrate the oral mucosa. This addiction causes both local and systemic damage.

Chewable tobacco contains nicotine, nitrosamines, arsenic, and sometimes lead. These carcinogens can cause mutations and oxidative stress, damaging DNA and affecting the central nervous system (CNS). Nicotine stimulates the CNS, leading to addiction and cardiovascular issues.

The high pH levels in tobacco facilitate the absorption of harmful compounds by the oral mucosa, perpetuating the cycle of addiction.

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Nicotine affects brain receptors that release dopamine, creating a pleasurable sensation. Continuous use leads to psychological and physical dependence, making it difficult to quit due to withdrawal symptoms like irritability and poor concentration. This dependency is similar to that of cigarette smoking.

Long-term tobacco chewing irritates the oral mucosa, causing pigmentation, loss of taste, and whitish deposits known as leukoplakia, a precancerous lesion. Erythroplakia, a red, velvet-like lesion, is also pre-malignant.

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Social stigma from anxiety, irritability, stained teeth, and bad breath, along with financial losses and healthcare costs, worsen the situation.

Health education and behavioural counselling are necessary for those addicted to tobacco chewing. Awareness programs in institutions and workplaces can be beneficial. Healthcare providers may recommend nicotine replacement and support groups.

FAQs on Health Risks of Chewing Tobacco

1. What are the primary health risks associated with tobacco chewing?

Tobacco chewing leads to local and systemic damage, including oral cancer, gum diseases, tooth decay, cardiovascular issues, and central nervous system harm due to nicotine and carcinogens.

2. How does nicotine in chewable tobacco affect the body?

Nicotine stimulates the central nervous system, causing addiction and cardiovascular problems. It affects brain receptors that release dopamine, creating a pleasurable sensation leading to psychological and physical dependence.

3. What are leukoplakia and erythroplakia?

Leukoplakia presents as whitish deposits in the mouth and is a precancerous lesion due to long-term tobacco chewing. Erythroplakia appears as red, velvet-like lesions and is also pre-malignant.

4. What withdrawal symptoms can occur when quitting tobacco chewing?

Withdrawal symptoms include irritability, poor concentration, anxiety, and psychological discomfort, making it challenging to quit due to physical and psychological dependence similar to cigarette smoking.

5. How can one seek help to quit tobacco chewing?

Health education, behavioural counselling, awareness programs, nicotine replacement therapy, and support groups can assist individuals in overcoming tobacco chewing addiction. Consulting healthcare providers is essential for personalized guidance.

Disclaimer: This article, including health and fitness advice, only provides generic information. Don’t treat it as a substitute for qualified medical opinion. Always consult a specialist for specific health diagnosis.