According to a report from the British newspaper The Boston Globe on May 28th, a new survey commissioned by Loughborough University for the Professional Footballers' Association (PFA) has found that approximately one fifth of male and female professional football players surveyed are using tobacco pouches (snus), nicotine pouches, or both. The survey also revealed that two-fifths of participants had tried such products at least once. The report suggests that the true prevalence of use may be even higher, as players may be hesitant to admit to using these products, even in anonymous surveys.
In this survey, 18% of the 628 male players and 22% of the 51 female players in the Premier League or Women's Super League respectively said they are currently using these products. The report found that respondents (29% and 55% respectively) believe that using these products can improve their mental preparedness. 41% of male players said they use these products to help relax after training and matches, compared to 64% of female players.
However, the report also points out that the use of tobacco products may have potential negative physical effects. Available evidence indicates that tobacco product use may increase the risk of esophageal and pancreatic cancer, as well as cardiovascular diseases, when compared to non-smokers. There is a strong association between tobacco product use and oral lesions.
Tobacco pouches containing tobacco are illegal to sell in the UK, however, nicotine pouches do not contain tobacco and can be purchased legally. Reports have found that players are more likely to use nicotine pouches, which can be placed between the upper lip and gum. Investigations have found that players often start using these products to fit in with others, typically more senior teammates. Among male players, 56% cited this as the reason, while among females, the percentage was as high as 73%.
It is worth noting that the report also points out that if products purchased online or on social media are contaminated, there may be adverse results in anti-doping tests.
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