The Current Smokeless Tobacco Trend in Bangladesh

Although many smokers believe that using smokeless tobacco is safer than smoking, numerous health hazards are associated with its use. Toxins are present in all cigarette products. Because these products are seen as a part of the cultural heritage, there is little enthusiasm for their regulation throughout South and South-East Asia, particularly in Bangladesh, India, Nepal, Pakistan, Sri Lanka, etc. Nearly 80% of users live in these areas, which could negatively impact their social, physical, and emotional health. According to several studies, quitting smoking may make people crave smokeless tobacco even more. However, they began using smokeless tobacco as a recreational activity but ultimately developed physical health conditions like gastritis, lung cancer, esophageal cancer, mouth cancer, and carcinoma of the liver. Additionally, they had medical and mental illnesses like melancholy, addiction, stress, mental anguish, and even suicidal thoughts, among others. Since it is harmful, smokeless tobacco should be handled with care. Unfortunately, our policy has not been upgraded or even had the legislation and regulation system applied. In order to alleviate this susceptible problem for the betterment of the country, it is now vital to take emergency steps to concentrate on & conduct preventive comprehensive action at every level from the government & local concern authorities.