Areca Nut Use and Its Association with Health Risk Perception among Youth Population in China

This study aimed to explore the use behaviors of areca nut, associated risk perceptions, and their relationship in the Chinese youth population. A total of Chinese youth aged 18-24 participated in an online survey using a self-administered questionnaire. The analysis revealed that while the overall rate of current areca nut use was low, a higher proportion of young males reported both current and prior use compared to females. The primary motivations for using areca nut included its perceived refreshing effects and stress relief, while curiosity and social sharing were the main reasons for trying it. Participants showed limited awareness of certain health risks, such as its potential to cause gastric inflammation, perforation, and malnutrition, compared to its oral health hazards. Insufficient knowledge of these health risks was identified as a key driver of areca nut use, alongside other factors such as smoking, alcohol consumption, and residing in areas where areca nut production and processing are prevalent. The findings highlight areca nut use as a growing health concern among Chinese youth, with use behaviors closely tied to risk perceptions. Targeted educational efforts to raise awareness about the harms of areca nut are crucial to addressing this issue. Keywords  Areca nut use, Risk perception, Youth health education