PMA backs ban on betel nuts

LAHORE: The Pakistan Medical Association (PMA) has appreciated the Punjab government for banning sale and consumption of betel nuts (Chalia) in the province. Violators will be punished after January 31st, 2018.

“It was need of the hour to take such steps because cases of oral cancer and Sub-mucous Fibrosis (SMF) are increasing geometrically in Pakistan. PMA believes that all the other provinces should also follow this exemplary step and immediately impose ban on Chalia,” said Dr SM Qaisar Sajjad, secretary-general, PMA Centre, in a statement issued on Monday.

Sub-mucous Fibrosis is very common in teenagers particularly school and college going students. This is non-treatable disease in which the mucosa of the oral cavity is being fibrosed resulting in the limitation of the opening of the mouth and severe burning in mouth.

The Pakistan Medical Association has been continuously raising its voice for the prevention of oral cancer and Sub-mucous Fibrosis. A beetle nut (Chalia) is the main cause of oral cancer and Sub-mucous Fibrosis.

It is very important to note that Chalia is not growing in Pakistan, but the fungal infected Chalia is being imported. Any fungal infected food eaten for a long time can cause liver cancer. It is also proven clinically that juice of the good quality Chalia is carcinogen and when it is mixed with other hazardous items, it becomes more dangerous for human health.