Concerned Mineral County dentists and physicians have joined with Mineral County Family Resource Network in Mineral County’s tobacco education and prevention efforts to fight spit tobacco and reduce its use among young people.

Many people believe spit tobacco is a safe alternative to cigarettes, but it’s not.

Because spit tobacco contains a higher concentration of nicotine, it’s actually more addictive than cigarettes. Spit tobacco can also cause oral cancer, especially in the cheeks, gums and throat.

West Virginia rates the highest in adult spit tobacco use in the country.
According to the 1994 Surgeon General’s report, kids who use spit tobacco are more likely to start using cigarettes.

Because of the passage in some areas of clean indoor air regulations prohibiting smoking in public places, tobacco companies are now encouraging the use of spit tobacco as an alternative.

Consequently, help is needed from all West Virginia communities to win the fight.

For more information on related programs, activities or membership opportunities, please contact the Mineral County Health Department at 304-788-1321m or Angela Powers, RTPCCm at 304-671-2989.

For more information on how to quit smoking or quit using spit tobacco products, contact the West Virginia Quitline toll free at 1-877-966-8784.