An estimated 7.6 million Americans use chewing tobacco, according to the National Cancer Institute. This chewing tobacco contains 28 cancer-causing ingredients. While a lack of smoke may lead others to believe that chewing tobacco is a safer alternative to cigarette smoking, chewing tobacco poses its own health risks that can be deadly in some instances.
Misconceptions
Because chewing tobacco does not produce smoke as cigarettes do, many people believe that chewing tobacco is a safer alternative, according to the Mayo Clinic. However, chewing tobacco contains as much as three to four times more nicotine than that delivered by a cigarette, according to the National Cancer Institute. Also, this nicotine stays in the bloodstream longer than nicotine obtained from a cigarette.
Types
Chewing tobacco is a smokeless tobacco product that is often sweetened. The chewing tobacco is placed between the cheek and gum, which allows the nicotine to be absorbed into the bloodstream, according to the Mayo Clinic. Juices from the tobacco often are spit out. Chewing tobacco can be packaged in other forms, including a plug, twist, snuff, snus or tobacco lozenges--all of which contain nicotine but do not involve smoke.
Expert Insight
The United States Surgeon General issued a statement in 1986 that smokeless tobacco "is not a safe substitute for smoking cigarettes," according to the National Cancer Institute. The NCI and the National Institutes of Health have also issued statements advising Americans to avoid all tobacco products--including cigarettes and chewing tobacco.
Dangers
Oral cancers are common in those who use smokeless tobacco products, according to The Ohio State University Medical Center. Chewing tobacco also contains chemicals that affect the function of hormone-producing enzymes that affect every body organ, according to Science Daily. This can result to damage to key organs, such as the liver, kidney and lungs. Using chewing tobacco also increases the risk of experiencing cavities, heart disease and gum disease, according to the Mayo Clinic.
Solution
If you currently use chewing tobacco, quitting can be difficult because the nicotine contained in it is addictive. The National Cancer Institute recommends using nicotine replacement therapies, such as nicotine gum or the nicotine patch. Joining a support group or engaging in counseling also may help you to succeed in quitting.
