The Unseen Impact: Chewing Tobacco and Baseball
Chewing tobacco, much like cigarettes, poses severe health risks, including mouth cancer, gum disease, and heart disease. Despite common misconceptions, it’s not a safer alternative to smoking. The Surgeon General’s 1986 report declared that smokeless tobacco “is not a safe substitute for cigarettes, as it can cause cancer and other health issues, and lead to nicotine addiction.” In 1991, the National Cancer Institute advised the public to avoid all tobacco products, including chewing tobacco, due to the presence of harmful nitrosamines.
Chewing Tobacco’s Role in Baseball
The connection between chewing tobacco and baseball is deeply rooted in tradition, reinforced by the image of players indulging in the habit as part of the game’s culture. However, this perception is gradually shifting thanks to awareness campaigns led by players who have personally witnessed the devastating effects of chewing tobacco.
Jeff Bagwell’s Story
Jeff Bagwell, a retired first baseman for the Houston Astros, is among those advocating against tobacco use. At 25, his dentist discovered leukoplakia in his mouth, a precancerous sore caused by chewing tobacco. Fortunately, early detection prevented his condition from developing into cancer. Bagwell’s firsthand experience highlights the dangers of chewing tobacco, prompting his efforts to educate others.
The Tragic Tale of Rick Bender
Rick Bender, a former minor league player, faced a graver outcome. After starting to use tobacco at age 12, he developed mouth cancer that resulted in significant surgery, ending his baseball career and leaving him with severe facial disfigurement. Known as “The Man Without a Face,” Bender now travels the country, warning against the dangers of chewing tobacco and debunking myths associated with it.
Remembering Robert Leslie
Robert Leslie, a beloved baseball coach, died at 31 from mouth cancer linked to chewing tobacco use. His efforts to counsel youths against tobacco before his death left a lasting impact on many, underscoring the urgent need for awareness.
The Historical Ties Between Tobacco and Baseball
The relationship between baseball and tobacco dates back to the 1800s when players chewed tobacco to keep their mouths moist. Over time, the habit evolved, with players using it to soften gloves or create spitballs. Despite fluctuations in popularity due to health concerns about tuberculosis, chewing tobacco persisted in baseball culture.
By the mid-20th century, smoking had become more prevalent, but misconceptions about the relative safety of chewing tobacco led players back to smokeless options. This resurgence was fueled by aggressive marketing, including sponsorships and free samples in locker rooms.
The Changing Landscape
Today, efforts to break the bond between baseball and chewing tobacco are gaining momentum. Minor league baseball banned tobacco use in 1993, influencing major league habits. Awareness campaigns promoted alternatives like sunflower seeds, with figures like former Giants manager Dusty Baker leading by example.
Despite these efforts, an estimated 7.6 million Americans still use smokeless tobacco, mostly young adults aged 18-25. The need for comprehensive cessation programs and regular cancer screenings remains crucial.
Toward a Tobacco-Free Future
The entwined history of chewing tobacco and baseball is slowly unraveling, thanks to increasing awareness and changing norms. However, the fight is far from over. If you or someone you know uses tobacco, quitting is the best choice for your health. Numerous cessation programs and nicotine replacement therapies are available to assist.
For those concerned about oral health, regular screenings with a trusted dentist can be crucial in catching early signs of cancer. Residents in Hillsboro and the surrounding areas can contact East Wind Dental Care at 503-614-0198 for more information on health screenings and support.
By understanding and addressing the risks associated with chewing tobacco, we can help ensure a healthier future for both players and fans alike.
East Wind Dental Care
Dental Implant placement in Hillsboro, Oregon, and Beaverton Oregon
family dentistry in Hillsboro
https://eastwinddentalcare.com
amily and Cosmetics Dentistry in Hillsboro, Oregon.
East Wind Dental Care Family and cosmetics dentistry in Hillsboro Oregon. We at East Wind Dental Care are committed to providing quality dental care to families located in the Hillsboro and Beaverton area and treat patients of all ages. We provide comprehensive solutions for our patients' oral health needs. Believing in the importance of listening to our patients, we take the time to truly understand each person's needs, goals, and lifestyle. By understanding our patients' objectives we can provide solutions that will improve their health while transforming their smile into something bright and beautiful. East Wind Dental Care at Hillsboro, Oregon provides a wide variety of dental services and procedures to address all of our patients' dental health needs. By combining quality patient care with up-to-date technology, we are able to treat patients of all ages in a comfortable and relaxing setting. Our website includes information on the following items: Dentist, Cosmetic Dentist, Family Dentist, General Dentist, Emergency Dentist, Dental Implants, Teeth Whitening, Dental Veneers, Dentures, Dental Crowns and more. Our Dentist and expert staff are trained to not only treat patients but to identify what caused the health concern in the first place. This comprehensive approach sets patients of East Wind Dental Care in Hillsboro on the road to recovery and long term oral health. When you walk into the office of East Wind Dental Care you will be immediately greeted by our friendly staff who are dedicated to making sure that you feel comfortable during your entire appointment. We understand that patients can feel anxious when going to the dentist, and our staff will take the time to listen to all of your concerns and help you understand exactly what your procedure is going to be like. At East Wind Dental Care we pride ourselves on being an affordable family dentist that accepts a variety of insurance plans and payment options like cash and credit cards, because we want to provide a beautiful, healthy smile to everyone in the Hillsboro, Beaverton, and Portland area. Call East Wind Dental Care today at 503-614-0198 to see why we are the dentist of choice in the Hillsboro, Beaverton, and Portland area.
Address: 7546 NE Shaleen St Hillsboro, OR 97124, USA
Phone: 503-614-0198 Call us today!
Website: https://www.eastwinddentalcare.com
Dentist in Hillsboro, OR - East Wind Dental Care provides general dentistry in Hillsboro. Make your next family dentist appointment at East Wind Dental Care. General Dentistry, Preventative Dentistry, Pediatric (Kids!) Dentistry, Cosmetic Dentistry, Tooth Replacement. Crowns and Bridges, Dental Implants & Mini Dental Implants Dentures (with specialty), Complete denture, Partial Dentures.
East Wind Dental Care
Family and cosmetics dentistry in Hillsboro Oregon.
We at East Wind Dental Care are committed to providing quality dental care to families located in the Hillsboro and Beaverton area and treat patients of all ages. We provide comprehensive solutions for our patients' oral health needs. Believing in the importance of listening to our patients, we take the time to truly understand each person's needs, goals, and lifestyle. By understanding our patients' objectives we can provide solutions that will improve their health while transforming their smile into something bright and beautiful.
East Wind Dental Care at Hillsboro, Oregon provides a wide variety of dental services and procedures to address all of our patients' dental health needs. By combining quality patient care with up-to-date technology, we are able to treat patients of all ages in a comfortable and relaxing setting. Our website includes information on the following items: Dentist, Cosmetic Dentist, Family Dentist, General Dentist, Emergency Dentist, Dental Implants, Teeth Whitening, Dental Veneers, Dentures, Dental Crowns and more. Our Dentist and expert staff are trained to not only treat patients but to identify what caused the health concern in the first place. This comprehensive approach sets patients of East Wind Dental Care in Hillsboro on the road to recovery and long term oral health.
When you walk into the office of East Wind Dental Care you will be immediately greeted by our friendly staff who are dedicated to making sure that you feel comfortable during your entire appointment. We understand that patients can feel anxious when going to the dentist, and our staff will take the time to listen to all of your concerns and help you understand exactly what your procedure is going to be like. At East Wind Dental Care we pride ourselves on being an affordable family dentist that accepts a variety of insurance plans and payment options like cash and credit cards, because we want to provide a beautiful, healthy smile to everyone in the Hillsboro, Beaverton, and Portland area. Call East Wind Dental Care today at 503-614-0198 to see why we are the dentist of choice in the Hillsboro, Beaverton, and Portland area.
East Wind Dental Care
Address: 7546 NE Shaleen St Hillsboro, OR 97124, USA
Phone: 503-614-0198 Call us today!
Opening Hours Mon - Fri: 8:00 - 17:00 and Saturdays with appointments.
Website: https://eastwinddentalcare.com/
Make an appointment online at https://eastwinddentalcare.com/contact-3/
