Tobacco chewing is indeed very bad for both oral and overall health. It poses numerous risks and can lead to various serious health issues, not just limited to the mouth. Here are some additional reasons why tobacco chewing is harmful:
Increased Risk of Cancer: Chewing tobacco is linked to an increased risk of various cancers, including oral cancer, esophageal cancer, and pancreatic cancer.
Heart Disease and Stroke: Tobacco chewing is associated with an increased risk of heart disease and stroke due to its effects on blood pressure, heart rate, and blood vessel health.
Respiratory Problems: Chewing tobacco can contribute to respiratory issues such as chronic bronchitis and chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD).
Digestive Problems: Chewing tobacco can irritate the digestive system, leading to issues such as gastritis and peptic ulcers.
Addiction: Tobacco contains nicotine, a highly addictive substance. Chewing tobacco can lead to nicotine addiction, making it difficult to quit the habit.
Negative Impact on Oral Health: In addition to the oral health problems mentioned earlier, tobacco chewing can also lead to leukoplakia (white patches in the mouth), increased plaque buildup, and delayed wound healing in the mouth.
Impaired Taste and Smell: Chewing tobacco can dull the senses of taste and smell over time.
Harmful to Others: Secondhand smoke and spit tobacco residue can also harm people around the user, increasing their risk of health problems.
Given these significant health risks, it’s crucial to avoid tobacco chewing altogether. If you’re currently using tobacco in any form and want to quit, there are various resources and support systems available to help you quit successfully. It’s never too late to make positive changes for your health.