In the present study, chromosomal aberrations (CAs) and micronucleus (MN) levels in the lymphocytes from 60 male individuals
consisting of 40 habitues of Maras powder (a kind of smokeless tobacco) and 20 unexposed subjects were determined to investigate
the possible inducing effect of Maras powder. The consumers of Maras powder had no exposure to any other known mutagens or
toxicants. The mean exposure period to Maras powder was 12.25 ± 0.93 years (range 3–22). Data obtained from microscopic examination
of the slides was analyzed using SPSS (10.0) software package. Mean frequency of CA and MN was found to be significantly higher
in Maras powder consumers as compared to controls. Similarly, there was a significant elevation in the level of aberrant cells
(Ab.Cells) with CAs and binucleated cells with MN (BNMN) in habitues. Spearman’s rho correlation analysis indicated a significant
increase in the frequency of CA and MN with increase in both age and years of exposure in consumers. Our finding of a significant
elevation of CA and MN frequencies in peripheral lymphocytes from smokeless tobacco consumers demonstrated a potential cytogenetic
hazard associated with Maras powder exposure.
The text was submitted by the authors in English.