Health Effects of Smokeless Tobacco Forms of smokeless tobacco include chewing tobacco, snuff, snus (a form of snuff), and dissolvable tobacco. Chewing tobacco involves placing wads, or plugs, of tobacco leaves between the cheeks and gums. Snuff is a finely cut or powdered tobacco that people inhale or place between the cheek and gums. Dissolvable tobacco comes in the form of flavored mouth drops or strips. All forms of smokeless tobacco contain nicotine and carcinogens. The harmful effects of these substances are the same as if they were smoked. The presence of nicotine makes smokeless tobacco just as addictive as cigarettes. In fact, because people place smokeless tobacco directly into the mouth, people who use these products actually absorb even more nicotine than people who smoke (Figure 11.7). Because using smokeless tobacco does not involve inhaling smoke, people who use these products are less likely to develop lung diseases than people who smoke. People who use smokeless tobacco do, however, increase their risk of developing other serious diseases. When using smokeless tobacco, people absorb nicotine through their mouth tissues. Nicotine stains the teeth and can lead to gum recession. Using smokeless tobacco can also lead to leukoplakia, a condition characterized by thickened, white, leathery spots inside the mouth. This condition can develop into oral cancer. Smokeless tobacco use leads to an increased risk of cardiovascular disease, respiratory irritation, gum disease, and tooth decay. Mental, Social, and Legal Consequences Using tobacco impacts not just a person’s body, but also a person’s mind and social relationships. As you know, the different dimensions of health are interconnected. Consequences in one area of health also affect other areas of health. The effects of tobacco use are long lasting and can shape your future in serious ways. smokeless tobacco tobacco product that is chewed or snuffed rather than smoked leukoplakia condition characterized by thickened, white, leathery spots inside the mouth can develop into oral cancer Smokeless Tobacco Bans in Baseball NCAA prohibits players, coaches, and umpires from using tobacco products during practices or games. 1990 Minor league baseball bans the use of chewing tobacco. 1993 MLB and players’ union ban new players from carrying or using tobacco before, during, and after games and at team functions. 2016 Half of all MLB stadiums prohibit smokeless tobacco. Present World in Hand/Shutterstock.com Figure 11.7 Though chewing and dipping tobacco have long been associated with baseball, this trend has been on the decline for a few decades. Recognizing the dangers to players’ health, various organizations and many players support the ban of smokeless tobacco. Do users of smokeless tobacco absorb more or less nicotine than people who smoke? How? Copyright Goodheart-Willcox Co., Inc. Chapter 11 Vaping and Tobacco 373