Evaluation of the Effect of Areca Nut Use During Pregnancy in the Commonwealth of the Northern Mariana Islands

Abstract

INTRODUCTION: Betel quid chewing is very common among the native Pacific Islanders living in the Commonwealth of the Northern Mariana Islands and is the fourth most common habit in the world after tobacco, alcohol, and caffeine. Despite its widespread use, there are no studies regarding the effects of betel quid use during pregnancy in the Pacific Islanders living in the Commonwealth of the Northern Mariana Islands. The intent of this study was to assess whether there was a relationship between chewing areca nut and the incidence of preterm birth or meconium staining of amniotic fluid. METHODS: A retrospective chart review was conducted for all deliveries occurring in the territory during 2009. Residents with singleton pregnancies who self-identified during admission as areca nut chewers were selected as cases and compared with nonchewers after matching by age and ethnicity. RESULTS: Areca nut users had twice the odds of preterm birth compared with those who did not use areca nut and the odds of meconium staining of amniotic fluid were increased for areca nut users, although neither value was statistically significant. CONCLUSIONS: The effects of areca nut use during pregnancy remain largely unknown. Additional research with more accurate documentation and better quantification of intake is needed.