Expired CME Article
An Epidemic that Deserves More Attention: Epidemiology, Prevention, and Treatment of Smokeless Tobacco
Abstract
Smokeless tobacco (ST) use is common, especially in southern and rural areas. It is expected to become more popular with the recent move to sell more ST in areas where indoor smoking is banned. ST use usually starts in adolescence, which places this group at high risk. Nicotine dependence occurs almost exclusively in people who start using ST in their adolescent years, so it is crucial to prevent the introduction of ST to this age group. The debate over whether ST is a gateway to smoking or a bridge to quitting has not been fully answered. ST should not replace smoking where indoor smoking is banned. ST is less harmful than smoking, but nicotine replacement therapy (NRT) is much safer than ST. NRT and bupropion are helpful in the treatment of ST dependence by decreasing withdrawal symptoms and preventing weight gain after cessation.
Key Points
* Smokeless tobacco (ST) use is common in the southern states and might become more popular now that indoor smoking is being banned.
* Adolescents are especially at high risk, and efforts are needed to prevent ST use among teenagers.
* Nicotine replacement therapy is much safer than ST, and ST should not be introduced to the public as an alternative for smoking.
* Nicotine replacement therapy and bupropion are useful tools in treating ST addiction.
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