Betel nut: the prevalence of a carcinogenic substance as a social food—a study based on Xiangtan, Hunan province, China

Abstract

ABSTRACT Background Betel nut is a popular but addictive and carcinogenic food. Xiangtan City, Hunan Province, China, is a typical area where betel nut is in vogue. Method We traced the use, spread and prevalence of betel nut in Xiangtan City through literature review, and data collection. Results The prevalence of betel nut in Xiangtan City is closely related to the behavioral choices of local people, betel nut enterprises, and the local government. The public’s pursuit for betel nut chewing, the continuous development and innovation of betel nut enterprises and the support, and promotion of local government have jointly formed a positive closed-loop that promotes the popularity of betel nut locally. Conclusions The interaction amongst the public, the government, and betel nut enterprises provides a breakthrough path for subsequent prevention and reduction of betel nut chewing and betel nut-related oral diseases.