Risk Parameters of Consuming Smokeless Tobacco “Madgha”: A Study in Aswan, Upper Egypt

Abstract

Background: Smokeless tobacco (ST) use is a public practice in different places of the world. In Upper Egypt, Madgha is one of the chewable used tobacco consumed by individuals of different age groups. Being available and inexpensive has led to high consumption.
Objective: The current study aimed to examine the effect of Madgha on some hematological and biochemical parameters for Madgha users in Aswan.
Methods: We collected blood samples from 180 apparently healthy subjects, Madgha users (n=90) and their controls (n=90). Standard methods were used to examine the hematological and biochemical parameters.
Results: In a comparison of Madgha users with their controls, the results of hematological parameters showed a significant elevation in total white blood cell count, neutrophil and serum ESR, and a significant reduction in the percentage of lymphocytes and monocytes. Higher biochemical parameters like CRP, lipid contents, fasting blood glucose, and liver enzymes were observed in the blood samples of Madgha users. And a positive correlation between each of the white blood cell counts, platelet count, and CRP with the long duration of Madgha intake was reported in the study.
Conclusion: The study concluded that the consumption of Madgha might have harmed both hematological and biochemical parameters. Awareness is immensely needed to stop Madgha’s usage and safeguard people’s health in Aswan.