November 2009 - Week 3

Topic: Smokeless Tobacco

Cigarette smoking among American adults aged 18 and older declined 50 percent from 1965-2005 – from 42 percent to 21 percent. However, during this same time, there was an increase in the use of all forms of smokeless tobacco – plug, leaf, and snuff. The greatest cause for concern is the sharply increased use of “dipping” snuff.

Smokeless tobacco use is promoted as a safe alternative to cigarette smoking and is advertised as a masculine, attractive, and socially acceptable practice. In reality, smokeless tobacco increases the risk of oral cancer and other health problems. There are reports that smokeless tobacco is being used regularly by children in as early as the 4^th grade. The medical and dental professions must recognize – and educate the public about – the serious health risks of smokeless tobacco use. Here are some facts about smokeless tobacco:

• Tobacco use is a known cause of cancer.
• Smokeless tobacco is not a safe substitute for cigarettes.

For more information on smokeless tobacco, call the American Cancer Society at 1-800-227-2345 or visit cancer.org.