Are nicotine pouches hazardous to one's health?
Nicotine pouches and snus, marketed as smokeless alternatives to tobacco, have gained popularity as aids for managing nicotine addiction. However, the long-term health effects of these products remain a subject of ongoing research.
Current research indicates that the long-term health risks of nicotine pouches include gastrointestinal problems, oral lesions, psychological symptoms such as anxiety and depression, and cardiovascular effects, along with the risk of nicotine addiction. While snus has a lower risk of lung cancer, mouth cancer, pancreatic cancer, and heart disease compared to smokable tobacco products, limited data suggests that it might increase a person's risk of developing diabetes.
A high prevalence of gastrointestinal symptoms, such as nausea, bloating, heartburn, and other digestive issues including Crohn's disease and gastroesophageal reflux disease, has been reported among nicotine pouch users. Frequent oral lesions and irritation are also common, with nearly half of adult users reporting these issues in some studies.
Psychological impacts are also a concern, with a significant association between nicotine pouch use and symptoms of anxiety and depression, potentially linked to nicotine dependence. The concentrated nicotine content in pouches poses a risk of nicotine poisoning, especially in children, with symptoms ranging from rapid heart rate and agitation to seizures and cardiac arrest in cases of ingestion.
Snus may help people move away from smoking, although it does not eliminate tobacco or nicotine use. Other methods of smoking cessation, such as nicotine replacement therapy, have stronger evidence supporting their safety. Products like patches, gums, and lozenges have a strong evidence base showing that they may be effective in helping a person quit.
It's important to note that the regulations for non-tobacco nicotine (NTN) are not as strict as those for tobacco products. This lack of regulation raises concerns about the potential presence of harmful chemicals in these products. A 2022 study found 26 out of 44 nicotine pouch products contained cancer-causing chemicals known as tobacco-specific nitrosamines (TSNAs).
In the modern tobacco market, various smokeless products claim to help manage nicotine addiction, but the research for many is limited or short-term. It's crucial to approach these products with caution and consult a clinician about evidence-based options instead of resorting to an unproven product that suggests a supportive role in smoking cessation in its marketing.
Stopping nicotine use can lead to nicotine withdrawal, which can cause symptoms that peak within a few days and last for several weeks. People often combine nicotine replacement therapy with other methods, such as telephone chatlines, free texting programs, free apps, medications, cognitive behavioral therapy, motivational interviewing, and online resources.
Chewing tobacco is harmful to oral health and can lead to several oral health problems, such as a receding gumline. E-cigarettes may increase a person's risk of several health problems, including lung disease and lung damage. Stronger inhalers and nasal sprays are available with a physician's prescription.
In conclusion, while nicotine pouches and snus might reduce some harms associated with smoking, current evidence points to significant long-term risks related to gastrointestinal and oral health, mental health, addiction, and cardiovascular effects. More scientific investigation is needed to clarify these risks and inform public health policy. It's always best to consult a healthcare professional for advice on quitting nicotine and tobacco use.
