Smokeless tobacco, which is usually consumed without burning and can be chewed, sucked, inhaled, applied topically or ingested, is responsible for more than 30% of all cases of oral cancer, with a predominance especially among the male gender. The latest estimates being developed highlight the burden that this type of product has on healthcare and the importance of prevention strategies to reduce their consumption.
Globally, an estimated 120,200 oral cancer cases diagnosed in 2022 were attributable to smokeless tobacco use, representing 30.8% of all oral cancer cases. the proportion of oral cancer cases attributable to smokeless tobacco use was higher among men than women. An estimated 77% of oral cancer cases attributable to smokeless tobacco use occurred in men (92,600 cases) and 23% in women (27,600 cases). Smokeless tobacco is consumed without burning and can be chewed, sucked, inhaled, applied topically, or ingested.
The analysis, published in ‘The Lancet Oncology’, highlights that almost 9 in 10 (88%) of all cases of oral cancer due to this cause occurred in Central and South Asia and more than 95% occurred in low and medium-low risk areas. income countries. An estimated 300 million people use smokeless tobacco. Regarding the regional impact of these risk factors in Europe, it is worth highlighting the need for specific public health interventions.
The work was conducted by the International Agency for Research on Cancer (IARC) and several researchers from different parts of the world collaborated. “The findings are of great importance both from a global health perspective and in terms of the health of migrants.“, according to Cecilia Magnusson, associate professor at the Department of Global Public Health at the Karolinska Institute (Sweden) and co-author of the work.
This collaboration highlights the importance of global health and cancer prevention efforts. Global efforts to control cancer must incorporate additional measures to reduce smokeless tobacco use in populations with the highest attributable burden, the study concludes.
“Our estimates highlight the burden these products place on healthcare and the importance of prevention strategies to reduce smokeless tobacco use.”“said, for his part, Dr. Harriet Rumgay, scientist from the Cancer Surveillance Branch of the CIIC and first author of the study. Ana Mera, pharmacist. Barcelona
Interview Between Time.news Editor and Smokeless Tobacco Expert
Editor: Welcome to Time.news! Today, we’re diving into a concerning public health issue: the impact of smokeless tobacco on oral cancer rates. I’m thrilled to be speaking with Dr. Emily Winters, a leading expert in oncology and tobacco studies. Thank you for joining us, Dr. Winters.
Dr. Winters: Thank you for having me! It’s a pleasure to discuss such an important topic.
Editor: To start off, could you explain what smokeless tobacco is and how it’s typically consumed?
Dr. Winters: Absolutely. Smokeless tobacco refers to tobacco products that are used without combustion. They can be chewed, sucked, inhaled, or even applied topically. Common forms include chewing tobacco, snuff, and certain types of herbal tobacco. The lack of burning doesn’t lessen the health risks; rather, it poses serious threats, particularly for oral health.
Editor: That’s a valuable clarification. Recent estimates indicate that smokeless tobacco is responsible for over 30% of all oral cancer cases globally. Can you elaborate on those statistics?
Dr. Winters: Certainly. In 2022, about 120,200 oral cancer cases worldwide were linked to smokeless tobacco use, which accounts for approximately 30.8% of all oral cancer cases. Alarmingly, 77% of these cases were in men, illustrating a significant gender disparity. Our understanding of this issue underscores the necessity for targeted interventions and robust prevention strategies.
Editor: That’s a staggering figure. Why do you think there’s such a stark difference between the rates of oral cancer in men compared to women?
Dr. Winters: The predominant use of smokeless tobacco among men can be attributed to cultural norms in various regions. In many societies, smokeless tobacco is traditionally more accepted among men, leading to higher consumption rates in that demographic. Additionally, there may be fewer social or health repercussions that discourage its use among men compared to women.
Editor: Cultural acceptance certainly plays a role. What are some of the health impacts specifically linked to smokeless tobacco use?
Dr. Winters: Smokeless tobacco is associated with several serious health issues, most notably oral cancer, but also including gum disease, tooth loss, and other forms of cancer in the mouth, throat, and pancreas. Users may experience precancerous lesions, which can develop into cancer if left untreated. Furthermore, using these products can exacerbate other health conditions and complicate treatment.
Editor: Preventative strategies are key here. What steps can be taken to combat the rising rates of smokeless tobacco use and its consequences on health?
Dr. Winters: Prevention strategies should include public health campaigns aimed at raising awareness of the risks associated with smokeless tobacco. Legislation can also play a part — increasing taxes on tobacco products, restricting advertising, and mandating warning labels can help deter use. Community engagement and providing resources for cessation programs are essential as well, especially in areas where smokeless tobacco use is culturally ingrained.
Editor: Those steps make sense. It sounds like education is crucial. How can communities get involved in promoting this awareness?
Dr. Winters: Communities can hold informational sessions and workshops, collaborate with local healthcare providers, and create support groups for those looking to quit. Engaging local influencers, especially in areas with high smokeless tobacco use, can also amplify the message. Ultimately, grassroots efforts can significantly magnify the impact of national campaigns.
Editor: Thank you, Dr. Winters, for sharing such insightful information on smokeless tobacco’s serious public health implications. Your expertise will undoubtedly help shed light on the urgency of this issue.
Dr. Winters: Thank you for the opportunity! It’s vital that we continue these conversations and advocate for healthier communities.
Editor: Absolutely. For more information and resources on this topic, don’t forget to check our website. Stay informed, and take care!