Chewing Tobacco vs Smoking: 5 Facts You Must Know

Last Updated:January 27, 2026, 08:13 IST

Many believe chewing tobacco is safer than smoking, but experts warn it can be even more dangerous. Smokeless tobacco raises cancer risk and directly damages the mouth and heart

Health experts clearly state that chewing tobacco is just as dangerous as smoking cigarettes.

Millions of people across India chew tobacco, and it is easily available in almost every neighbourhood. Regular use often leads to strong addiction, making it extremely difficult to quit. Many users also smoke cigarettes, another habit widely known to harm health.

A common misconception is that chewing tobacco is safer than smoking, but doctors warn that both significantly increase the risk of cancer and other serious illnesses.

Chewing Or Smoking: Both Are Equally Harmful

Cigarettes and bidis also contain tobacco, meaning that whether it is chewed or smoked, tobacco poses serious health risks. Medical experts stress that chewing tobacco can damage the body in ways many people do not realise. According to reports from the Mayo Clinic, smoking mainly affects the lungs, while chewing tobacco increases the risk of cancers of the mouth, throat, and pancreas.

In some cases, chewing tobacco may be even more harmful than smoking.

Nicotine Consumption And Its Effects

1. Risk of Addiction: Tobacco products contain high levels of nicotine, which are absorbed directly into the bloodstream through the lining of the mouth. This rapid absorption makes chewing tobacco highly addictive. The ‘high’ it produces is similar to that of smoking cigarettes, reinforcing dependence and increasing the risk of long-term health damage.
2. Increased Risk of Cancer: The American Lung Association (ALA) identifies cancer as the most serious risk linked to chewing tobacco. Research shows that it significantly raises the likelihood of developing cancers of the mouth, throat, and pancreas. Some studies indicate that cancer may begin earlier and progress more rapidly in people who chew tobacco compared to those who smoke.
3. Damage to Teeth and Oral Health: Chewing tobacco severely affects oral health. It can cause swollen and bleeding gums, tooth decay, receding gums, and even tooth loss. Long-term use can permanently damage the mouth and jaw, leading to painful and costly dental problems.
4. Heart Disease and Stroke Risk: According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), chewing tobacco also increases the risk of heart disease, high blood pressure, and stroke. Tobacco puts extra strain on the heart and blood vessels, raising the chances of heart attacks and other cardiovascular complications.
5. Risks During Pregnancy: Using tobacco during pregnancy is particularly dangerous. Chewing tobacco can harm both the mother and the unborn child, increasing the risk of complications and long-term health issues.

Warning From Health Experts

Health experts clearly state that chewing tobacco is just as dangerous as smoking cigarettes. Neither form of tobacco use is safe, and both can be life-threatening.

Quitting tobacco at the earliest possible stage is strongly advised to reduce the risk of serious disease and improve overall health.