Afzal Panderpuri Chewing Tobacco-1pcs

Afzal,
a banned smokeless tobacco product's (STP) consumption in Oman has
increased in the last two decades, especially among the youth.

A study conducted in 2014 by researchers from the Department of Biology
at Sultan Qaboos University (SQU), had found that Afzal contains heavy
metal contents that may cause health problems.

The study was conducted by Nawal al Mukhaini, a PhD Student, under the
guidance of Professor Taher Ba Omar, and Dr Elsadig Eltayeb and Dr Aisha
al Shehi from the Department of Biology at the College of Science.

STP is typically consumed by placing a wad between the lips and the
upper or lower gums for varying periods of time, often up to 30 minutes.
The juice is usually spit out.

Speaking about the risks of
using chewing tobacco, Nawal said that STP can cause different types of
cancers, mainly oral and oesophageal. 'It contains heavy metals like
cadmium which is toxic to bones. It can affect the nervous system and
kidney, and cause cataract. Lead, another metal found in the product is
known to cause renal tumours, increases blood pressure and risk of
cardiovascular diseases. Brain is also one of the organs most affected
by these metals.'

She added that the World Health Organization
and International Agency for Research in Cancer have classified STP as
carcinogenic substances.

Explaining the popularity of Afzal
among youth, Nawal said, 'Afzal has gained popularity in Oman as it is
not just cheap but also easily available. Many lack awareness about its
dangers.'

According to Dr Abdullah al Hashmi from the College of
Education at SQU, Afzal consumption hampers cognitive development. 'The
substance hampers cognitive performance. It reduces the ability to
think and pushes the addict to boredom and neglect towards both class
and home assignments.'

Smokeless tobacco changes the way you
think and act, said Dr Hamood al Nofli from the Department of Sociology
and Social Work at SQU. 'Those addicted to these products often become
introverts and isolate themselves.'

Cancer, tooth loss, oral
lesions and white patches in the mouth are some very common effects of
STPs. The product may also increase cavities and accelerate tooth decay.

Moumin Abdulfatah, a dentist at Al Jumana Dental Clinic in Wadi
Kabir said that chewing tobacco such as Afzal can increase the risk of
developing gum diseases. 'We have seen oral cancer cases due to the
consumption of smokeless tobacco.'

Awareness is key to tackle
the problem, said Nawal. 'It is important to regularly conduct dental
check-ups among students and cooperate with the Ministry of Health by
revealing the number of addicts, so that the government can take action
against the illegal sale of Afzal.'

An important step to combat the menace is by starting awareness programmes, said Dr Hashmi.

'It is important to start awareness programmes targeting Omani youth. Media too should come up with campaigns in this regard.'