Smokeless tobacco users have a four fold greater risk of oral cancer than non-users. Long-term use leads to increased risk of oral cancer. Two to four percent of these patches may turn into cancer. These changes include staining of teeth, recession of gums, and in over 50% of users, the development of thickened white patches or leukoplakia in the oral lining. Mid termĪfter about two years, changes often occur in the regions of the mouth where tobacco is placed. It also increases the likelihood that the person will become a smoker. It affects the cardiovascular system, increasing the heartbeat, constricting the blood vessels, and can increase blood pressure. Nicotine is an addictive compound that leads to dependence in most users. Smokeless tobacco contains higher quantities of nicotine than most cigarettes. Of the estimated 12-14 million American users, about 3.6 million are under the age of 21.