Confusion over chewing tobacco risks

New research undertaken with people of South East Asian origin indicates that nearly 80 per cent are unsure or underestimating the harmful effects of using smokeless or chewing tobacco.  Smokeless tobacco is used widely in South East Asian communities, especially by women.

The research found that over one in six (17 per cent) people of Asian ethnic origin used smokeless tobacco. Smoking of normal tobacco was only slightly higher at 22 per cent.  Approaching a third of respondents (29 per cent) considered smokeless tobacco to be less harmful than normal tobacco and just under half (49 per cent) did not know. In reality, smokeless tobacco is more dangerous and the incidence of mouth cancer is significantly greater among South Asian women.

The types of smokeless tobacco products most used in the UK often contain a mix of ingredients including slaked lime, spices, flavourings and sweeteners. Areca nut, a known carcinogen, is also sometimes added. Unlike normal tobacco they are not burnt, but can used in a variety of ways including sucking, chewing, inhaling through the nose or rubbed onto gums. Gutka, Khaini, Pan Masala are just some of the many varieties of smokeless tobacco used in the UK.