Adverse effects on health posed by consumption of Areca nut (Areca catechu L., family: Palmaceae).

This review paper discusses the impact of areca nut (Betel nut) on human health. Small pieces of betel nut are generally use with betel leaf after meals in a day or on any festival. Areca nut seed contains bioactive components like alkaloids and tannins. It is known as salivary stimulating, digestive agents and act as antimicrobial effect against oral bacteria. Along with the few beneficial effects, it has some adverse effects on the human body. Need to enhance the awareness activities regarding the health concern due to consumption of areca nut.

Prevalence of smoking in a rural community of Bangladesh.

Background: Smoking is a global public health concern. It causes huge premature death, health issues and possess economic burden in the developing countries. Despite of mass anti-smoking camping prevalence of smoking is increasing in developing countries. The aim of this study was to determine the prevalence of smoking and factors associated with smoking among a rural population of Bangladesh. Methods: A cross-sectional study was designed to collect data from rural community of Bangladesh in February to April 2011. Sample was determined purposively and size was 500. Results: The study’s current smoking prevalence was 39.4%. Respondents mean age was 34.63 years and current smokers mean age was 35.7SD ± 9.23 years. The prevalence of current smoking amongst male (89.3%) was significantly higher in comparison with the female (10.7%). Current smoking habit had been gradually decreased with the level of education. The prevalence of current smoking was significantly (P = 0.000) highest among the day labour (30.5%) and two-third smokers was initiated to smoking within the age of 10 to 20 years. About 36.4% of the current smokers smoked 5 to 15 sticks per day. Both ever (42%) and current (45.2%) smoking prevalence was highest amongst the population those monthly family income below 5000 Taka (60 USD). Conclusions: Overall rural smoking prevalence was 39.4%. Ever and current smoking prevalence was significantly higher among males. Smoking prevalence was highest among the illiterate and reduced with the increase of level of education and socio-economic status. To reduce the smoking prevalence amongst the risk group, policy-maker should be implementing massive anti-smoking program.