Emerging insights into supari (areca nut) toxicity: a review of current evidence on oral and general health
Year: 2025
Type: article
Abstract: Background The use of supplements is a common tobacco use habit. It is widely used in a wide range of societies and other countries worldwide. Alkaloids are the major components present and are consumed in various forms, such as betel quid muffled in betel leaves, lime, and tobacco. Owing to its carcinogenic qualities, it is a noteworthy environmentally contributing risk factor for the developing of oral precancerous lesions.Aim The aim of this review was to assess the outcomes of supari chewing on oral health.Experimental approach A narrative review was conducted using PubMed and Scopus databases for studies from 2000 to 2024, focusing on areca nut-related toxicity, genotoxicity, and carcinogenesis.Key findings A review of these studies revealed that its use causes oral problems affecting hard and soft tissues, such as periodontal disease, temporomandibular joint pathology, and oral mucosal lesions. Arecoline and its metabolites exhibit mutagenic and DNA-damaging effects via oxidative stress and epigenetic modifications. Global prevalence remains high in South Asia and the Pacific, with increasing oral cancer incidence.Conclusion Supari consumption negatively effects the general and oral health. Therefore, it is crucial for the public to engage in public health initiatives and receive counseling to break habits.
Source: Toxin Reviews
Authors: Praneetha Rani, Shivaprasad, Mahima Mishra
Institutions: Nitte University, Manipal Academy of Higher Education
Language: English
Subfield: Periodontics
Field: Dentistry
Domain: Health Sciences
Open Access status: hybrid
OpenAlex ID: W4412904342