Smokeless Tobacco (cont.)

A number of significant health risks are associated with the use of smokeless tobacco.

Users of smokeless tobacco are at an increased risk (up to 50% according to the American Cancer Society) for certain types of cancer, most notably cancer of the oral cavity (including cancers of the cheek, gums, lips, tongue, and floor and roof of the mouth. Some studies have suggested a link between the use of smokeless tobacco and the development of pancreatic cancer, esophageal cancer, and stomach cancer.

Those who use smokeless tobacco have an increased risk of:

• developing gum diseases and gum recession (pulling away of the gum tissue from the teeth);
  
  
• leukoplakia (whitish patches inside the mouth that can become cancerous);
  
  
• abrasion (wearing down) of teeth,;
  
  
• staining of teeth;
  
  
• tooth decay; and
  
  
• tooth loss.

All of the above have been linked to smokeless tobacco use.

Some studies have shown a link between an increased risk of cardiovascular disease (including heart attacks and stroke) in users of smokeless tobacco, although these risks are not as great as those observed in smokers. Further research is needed to determine whether or not smokeless tobacco use presents a significant risk of heart disease and stroke.