Why smokeless tobacco control needs to be strengthened?

Area of Science:

• Public Health
• Oncology
• Cardiovascular Medicine

Background:

• Smokeless tobacco (SLT) is a global health concern, prevalent in over 140 countries.
• SLT consumption is linked to numerous severe health problems, including cancers and cardiovascular diseases.

Purpose of the Study:

• To summarize current knowledge on smokeless tobacco.
• To provide evidence for strengthening global SLT control strategies.

Main Methods:

• Literature review and evidence synthesis.
• Analysis of existing data on SLT prevalence and health impacts.

Main Results:

• SLT use is associated with oropharyngeal, esophageal, and pancreatic cancers.
• Other adverse outcomes include oral potentially malignant lesions, diabetes, cardiovascular diseases, mental illness, osteopenia, and adverse pregnancy outcomes.
• Product diversity and complex supply chains complicate SLT control efforts.

Conclusions:

• Smokeless tobacco poses a significant and often underestimated global health burden.
• There is a critical need for enhanced international efforts and research to control SLT usage and mitigate its health consequences.