Dipping and Chewing Behavior Among University Students: Prevalence and Patterns of Use

Abstract

ABSTRACT: Identifying the prevalence and patterns of smokeless tobacco use among students at a midwestern university was the purpose of this study. Since smokeless tobacco sales have increased 52% since 1978, and since a youth market has developed, identifying why and when young people use these products can assist health educators in developing strategies to discourage initiation and promote cessation. A 25–item questionnaire completed by 676 undergraduate students indicated that 14% of males and 0.5% of females were regular snuff dippers or tobacco chewers. More than one‐third of the users began use at or before age 16. The influence of a “friend” was the major reason cited for initiating use, while “fun/relaxation” was cited as the principal reason for continuing. Fewer than one‐third of users successfully identified the health risks associated with snuff and chewing tobacco.