Narrative review reveals genotoxic mechanisms of smokeless tobacco carcinogens in oral tissues, highlighting the need for targeted cessation and biomarker screening.
Smokeless tobacco (SLT) is a major global health risk due to its established genotoxic and carcinogenic effects. This brief communication summarizes the most significant and contemporary molecular mechanisms, including oxidative stress, nitrosamine-driven DNA adduct formation, and heavy-metal-mediated repair inhibition. It also emphasizes the implications of these mechanisms for the development of policies and the prevention of oral cancer. Additionally, emphasized is the incorporation of new biomarkers with updated global epidemiologic insights relevant to SLT, such as the inclusion of microRNA-21 within a wider biomarker panel. Focused cessation campaigns, early detection methods, and regulatory tightening are among the priorities listed for health systems.
No takes yet. Share an insight, caveat, or question.
Noor et al. (2026) studied this question.
Synapse has enriched 5 closely related papers on similar clinical questions. Consider them for comparative context: