Harmful Chemicals in African Smokeless Tobacco Vary Widely, Study Finds

What is it about?

The research investigated the chemical composition of smokeless tobacco (SLT) products from five African countries: South Africa, Uganda, Mauritania, Nigeria, and Zambia. The methodology involved collecting 54 samples, comprising both manufactured and custom-made SLT products, using a standardized approach for collection, labeling, and storage. The analysis focused on moisture content, pH, nicotine levels (total and unprotonated), tobacco-specific N-nitrosamines (TSNA), polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons (PAH), metals and metalloids, nitrate, and nitrite content. The research found that total nicotine content ranged from 1.6 to 20.5 mg/g, with unprotonated nicotine accounting for 5.3–99.6% of the total. TSNA levels varied significantly, ranging from 1.6 to 100 μg/g, with notable within-country variations across product types. The research provided comprehensive chemical profiling of African SLT products and demonstrated variability in harmful constituents within the same types and brands of SLT products.

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Photo by Afif Ramdhasuma on Unsplash

Photo by Afif Ramdhasuma on Unsplash

Why is it important?

This study is important as it addresses a critical gap in knowledge regarding the levels of toxic and carcinogenic constituents in smokeless tobacco (SLT) products used in Africa, a region with high SLT usage and associated health risks. By providing comprehensive chemical profiling of SLT products from five African countries, the research offers valuable data that can inform public health policies and regulatory measures aimed at reducing morbidity and mortality linked to SLT use. The findings emphasize the need for consumer education and intervention strategies to mitigate the health impacts of SLT consumption in the region. Key Takeaways: 1. Variability in Toxicant Levels: The study reveals significant variability in the levels of harmful constituents like nicotine, TSNA, PAH, and metals across different SLT products and even within the same types and brands, highlighting the inconsistency in product safety. 2. High Nicotine and TSNA Content: Analysis shows that total nicotine content in SLT products ranges from 1.6 to 20.5 mg/g, with unprotonated nicotine making up a large percentage of this total, while TSNA levels vary significantly, suggesting potential for high carcinogenic risk. 3. Implications for Regulatory Measures: The data provided can assist regulators in developing surveillance and control measures to prevent the occurrence of high levels of toxicants in SLT products, ultimately aiming to reduce the health burden of SLT use in Africa.