Health Tip: Smokeless Tobacco Can Cause Its Own Problems

(HealthDay News) — Using a smokeless tobacco product doesn’t absolve you of possible risks, the American Academy of Family Physicians says.

Smokeless tobacco still contains addictive nicotine, which can affect your thinking and behavior, the academy says. In fact, smokeless tobacco puts more nicotine in your blood than cigarettes.

In addition, the academy warns, smokeless tobacco can:

  • Damage your teeth, including staining them and wearing them down.
  • Cause receding gums.
  • Produce sores in the mouth.
  • Lead to cancer of the mouth.
  • Raise your risk of heart attack.
  • Raise cholesterol and blood pressure.