Health consequences of snus use
- Fysiobasen
- 3 days ago
- 3 min read
Snus is a popular alternative to smoking, especially in Scandinavia, and has been considered a less harmful option compared to cigarettes. Many smokers turn to snus as a way to reduce nicotine dependence. But is snus truly safer, and how dangerous is it really? In this article, we explore the health consequences of snus use, how it affects the body, and the associated risks.
What is snus?
Snus is a type of smokeless tobacco placed under the upper lip, available in loose form or small pouches. It comes in different flavors and strengths. Nicotine is absorbed through the oral mucosa, making it highly addictive. In addition to nicotine, snus contains multiple chemicals that can negatively affect health¹.
How does snus affect health?
Although less harmful than smoking, snus use still carries significant health risks. Research has identified multiple adverse effects:
Increased risk of cancer
Snus contains carcinogenic substances that can damage oral cells. Long-term use is associated with oral cancer, pancreatic cancer, and elevated risk of cancers in the esophagus and stomach².
Cardiovascular disease
Nicotine activates the sympathetic nervous system, raising heart rate and blood pressure. Regular snus use is linked to higher risk of heart attack, stroke, and peripheral artery disease³.
Oral health complications
Frequent use can lead to gingivitis and periodontitis, with gum recession and tooth damage. Chronic use often results in irreversible loss of tooth attachment⁴.
Type 2 diabetes
Nicotine reduces insulin sensitivity and interferes with glucose regulation. Studies show that long-term snus users have increased risk of developing type 2 diabetes⁵.
Pregnancy risks
Snus use during pregnancy reduces blood supply to the fetus. It is linked to preterm birth, low birth weight, and stillbirth. While less harmful than smoking, it remains unsafe during pregnancy⁶.
Addiction
Nicotine in snus is highly addictive, sustaining dependency and making quitting difficult. Long-term use can result in chronic health problems while reinforcing nicotine dependence¹.
Is snus safer than smoking?
Compared to smoking, snus may reduce exposure to harmful combustion products, but it is not safe. Smoking causes millions of deaths worldwide, but snus still carries major risks. The best option for health is to avoid both cigarettes and smokeless tobacco products altogether.
How to quit snus?
Gradual reduction
Stepwise tapering of daily snus use helps the body adjust to lower nicotine levels.
Nicotine replacement
Nicotine gum, patches, or lozenges can ease withdrawal symptoms.
Support systems
Therapists and support groups improve motivation and provide coping strategies.
Lifestyle adjustments
Identify triggers such as stress and replace snus use with healthier alternatives like physical activity or relaxation techniques.
Summary
Snus is less harmful than smoking but still linked to severe health consequences, including cancer, cardiovascular disease, gum disease, and diabetes. It can be helpful for smokers trying to quit, but it is far from safe. The healthiest choice is to avoid nicotine entirely. Quitting is always possible, and multiple strategies can support the process.
Sources:
Benowitz NL, et al. Nicotine addiction. N Engl J Med. 2010;362(24): 2295-2303.
Hurt RD, et al. Smokeless tobacco use and risk of pancreatic cancer. Cancer. 1994;74(1): 12-17.
Shih C, et al. Oral and systemic health risks of smokeless tobacco use. J Dent Educ. 2006;70(7): 748-755.
Boffetta P, et al. Smokeless tobacco use and cancer risk. Lancet Oncol. 2008;9(7): 633-640.
U.S. Department of Health and Human Services. The Health Consequences of Using Smokeless Tobacco. U.S. Department of Health and Human Services; 1986.
