Snus addiction: The central driver of health effects
Snus, a moist, smokeless tobacco product, delivers nicotine directly into the bloodstream through the oral mucosa, producing a powerful and addictive effect. This nicotine rush stimulates the brain's reward system by releasing dopamine, creating feelings of pleasure and calm. Over time, the body builds a tolerance, requiring more frequent or higher-dose usage to achieve the same effect, leading to nicotine dependence and withdrawal symptoms like cravings, headaches, and irritability. Snus can be highly addictive, with studies showing that snus users and cigarette smokers report similar levels of subjective dependence on tobacco. This addiction is the central force driving continued use and exposure to the product's negative health consequences.
Oral health consequences of snus use
Because snus is held against the delicate oral tissues, it causes localized and sometimes irreversible damage. The high levels of nicotine and other chemicals irritate the mucous membrane, resulting in several significant dental and oral health issues:
- Gum Recession: Continuous contact with snus can cause the gums to pull away from the teeth at the site of placement, exposing the tooth roots. This can lead to increased tooth sensitivity and, if left untreated, potential tooth loss.
- Oral Lesions: The irritation can also lead to hard, white patches on the gums or inner cheek called leukoplakia. While not all leukoplakia is cancerous, it is considered a precancerous lesion and requires monitoring.
- Dental Decay and Staining: Snus use, particularly when combined with poor oral hygiene, has been associated with a higher incidence of dental caries (tooth decay). Additionally, the tobacco itself can cause significant and permanent yellow-brown staining of the teeth.
- Increased Gingivitis Risk: A recent study of adolescents found a statistically significant correlation between regular snus use and gum bleeding, a primary symptom of gingivitis. The study concluded that snus use and poor oral hygiene have a cumulative negative effect on oral health.
The burden on your cardiovascular system
The nicotine in snus is a potent vasoconstrictor, meaning it causes blood vessels to narrow. This forces the heart to work harder and raises blood pressure. The chronic use of snus has been linked to several cardiovascular risks, including:
- Increased Blood Pressure and Heart Rate: The stimulant effects of nicotine lead to sustained increases in both heart rate and blood pressure. Long-term hypertension is a major risk factor for heart attack and stroke.
- Endothelial Dysfunction and Arterial Stiffness: A 2020 study demonstrated that chronic snus users exhibit increased arterial stiffness and impaired endothelial function compared to non-users. The endothelium is the delicate lining of the blood vessels, and its dysfunction is an early risk factor for cardiovascular disease.
- Increased Mortality Post-Heart Attack: Some evidence suggests that snus use increases mortality rates following a myocardial infarction (heart attack). Conversely, men who stop using snus after a heart attack may reduce their risk of dying within the next two years by half.
Snus and cancer risk
While often positioned as a less harmful alternative to cigarettes, snus is not risk-free when it comes to cancer, though the risks differ by type. The primary cancer-causing chemicals in smokeless tobacco are tobacco-specific nitrosamines (TSNAs), which are present in lower concentrations in Swedish snus due to pasteurization, but are higher in American-made versions.
- Oral and Pancreatic Cancer: A systematic review noted an increased risk of pancreatic cancer in snus users. The link to oral cancer is debated, with some studies finding a connection while others have not found a statistically significant increase. However, the presence of carcinogenic compounds and the direct irritation of oral tissues remains a concern.
- Esophageal and Stomach Cancer: Some studies suggest a possible increase in the risk of esophageal and stomach cancer due to the ingestion of saliva mixed with tobacco compounds.
Comparison: Snus vs. Cigarette Smoking
| Health Aspect | Snus Use | Cigarette Smoking |
|---|---|---|
| Nicotine Absorption | Similar total daily absorption and steady-state levels for habitual users; slower, more prolonged delivery. | Faster absorption with a rapid peak in nicotine blood levels; quicker elimination. |
| Lung Cancer Risk | No risk, as it does not involve inhalation. | Significantly high risk, responsible for a large proportion of cancer deaths. |
| Oral Health | High risk of gum recession, leukoplakia, dental decay, and permanent staining. | High risk of oral cancer, gum disease, and periodontal issues. |
| Cardiovascular Risk | Increased risk of hypertension, arterial stiffness, endothelial dysfunction, and heart failure. | Significantly increased risk of heart disease, stroke, and overall cardiovascular mortality. |
| Pancreatic Cancer Risk | Some studies show an increased risk, though overall risk levels are low. | Increased risk; typically higher than for snus users. |
| Dependency | High potential for nicotine addiction; similar self-assessed addiction levels to smokers. | High potential for nicotine addiction, withdrawal symptoms, and dependence. |
Risks for specific populations
Snus use presents particular risks for vulnerable groups, especially adolescents and pregnant women. For adolescents and young adults, nicotine exposure during brain development can lead to increased impulsivity and attention issues, as well as a heightened predisposition to addiction. For pregnant women, nicotine is toxic to the fetus and can increase the risk of serious complications, including premature birth, low birth weight, and stillbirth.
Quitting snus and managing withdrawal
Quitting snus can be a challenging process due to nicotine addiction. However, various strategies are available to aid cessation:
- Cold Turkey: Abruptly stopping all use. This approach can be difficult due to strong withdrawal symptoms but is effective for some individuals.
- Tapering: Gradually reducing the amount and frequency of snus use to minimize withdrawal severity.
- Nicotine Replacement Therapy (NRT): Over-the-counter products like patches, gum, or lozenges can help manage cravings by providing controlled doses of nicotine.
- Counseling and Support: Behavioral therapy and support groups can address the psychological aspects of addiction and provide a support network.
- Medication: Prescription medications like varenicline (Chantix®) or bupropion (Zyban®) can be used to help reduce cravings and withdrawal symptoms.
Where to find help
For those looking for support in quitting, reputable health organizations offer resources. The National Cancer Institute operates a quitline at 877-44U-QUIT (877-448-7848). You can also find resources via your state's quitline by calling 800-QUIT-NOW (800-784-8669).
Conclusion
While promoted as a less harmful option than smoking, the answer to what does snus do to your body is clear: it delivers a potent dose of addictive nicotine that can lead to significant and permanent health consequences. Its use can severely damage oral tissues, cause gum recession, and increase the risk of cardiovascular disease and certain cancers. The perceived safety of snus is misleading; it is not risk-free and poses particular dangers to young users and developing fetuses. The best course of action for anyone using snus is to seek support for cessation to protect their long-term health. The availability of resources and medication makes quitting a manageable and achievable goal for those ready to make a positive change for their body. For a comprehensive overview of cessation tools, visit the CDC's resources on quitting.
