Gutka more harmful than other form of tobacco
It is widely consumed in countries like India, Pakistan & Bangladesh.
Guṭkha is a
preparation of crushed areca nut, tobacco, catechu, paraffin wax, slaked lime and sweet or
savory flavorings. It is manufactured in India and exported to a
few other countries. A mild stimulant, it is sold across South Asia in small,
individual-sized packets that cost between 2 and 10 rupees per packet. It is widely consumed in countries like
India, Pakistan & Bangladesh. Gutka is consumed by placing a pinch of it
between the gum and cheek and gently sucking and chewing. It is
considered responsible for oral cancer and other
severe negative health effects. As with paan and other smokeless tobacco products,
there are preventive efforts to
encourage users to quit and young people not to start.
Usage
Gutkha use can begin at a very young age. Due
to its often flavorful taste, easy availability and low price, it is popular
with poor children, who can exhibit precancerous lesions at a very early age as
a result. Symptoms of cancer often appear by high school or college age. Social custom does not permit children in pakistan and
India to smoke cigarettes, so gutkha use, being all but invisible to others, is
the method of choice. Gutkha is also used by many as an alternative to
cigarettes and is claimed to curb the need to smoke, but eventually becomes another
habit tough to quit. Gutkha also causes swallowing problems during night time
sleeping leading to dry throat and restless sleep. This may eventually lead to
throat cancer in users.. In 2008, about 5 million children under 15 were
addicted to gutkha.
Carcinogenic Effects
Betel nut has potentially carcinogenic
constituents, according to the NIH. Long-term use can cause oral submucous
fibrosis, a condition that makes it difficult to open the mouth. It can also
lead to pre-cancerous lesions in the mouth and a cancer called squamous cell
carcinoma. Regular use also may increase risk for other mouth cancers, as well
as cancers of the liver, cervix, stomach, prostate and lung. Other acute
effects can include rapid heartbeat, low blood pressure and worsening of
asthma.
Breathing Reaction
Some
people report breathing problems after using gutkha, according to the NIH. Some
people experience wheezing and an increased breathing rate. While no documented
allergic reactions exist in scientific literature, people who have allergies to
other members of the Palmaceae, or palm, family theoretically may experience
reactions to gutkha.
Body Reactions
Chemicals
in the betel leaves can cause skin color changes, along with dilated pupils and
blurred vision. Seizures have been reported with high doses, according to Aetna
InteliHealth. Gutkha also may cause or worsen conditions that involve muscle
stiffness, tremors, difficulty moving certain parts of the body, and
involuntary mouth or face movements.
Toxicity
Some
people experience toxicity symptoms from gutkha use, according to the NIH.
These include increased saliva production, increased tearing, sweating,
incontinence, diarrhea, flushing and fever. Other issues can include problems
with eye movement, confusion, psychosis, amnesia or feeling euphoric. Withdrawal
symptoms like anxiety and memory lapse can occur with long-term use.
Short-Term Effects
Using
gutkha can lead to vomiting, nausea, stomach cramps and diarrhea. It also can
cause chest pain, either high or low blood pressure, raised skin temperature and
irregular heart beat, according to the NIH. Betel chewing can harm gums as
well, and people can experience burning and mouth dryness.
Long-Term Effects
Other
side effects of gutkha can lead to abnormal thyroid function and kidney
abnormalities, advises Aetna InteliHealth, as well as metabolic syndrome, liver
toxicity and immuno-suppression. It can also alter blood sugar levels and raise
your risk of developing type 2 diabetes.
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