1
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Yang YH. Current advances of oral cancer in Taiwan. Oral Dis 2024. [PMID: 39072913 DOI: 10.1111/odi.15076] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/21/2024] [Revised: 07/01/2024] [Accepted: 07/08/2024] [Indexed: 07/30/2024]
Abstract
OBJECTIVES To provide updated statistics of oral cancer incidence and mortality in Taiwan, and to describe recent developments for oral cancer control to reduce oral cancer incidence and mortality. METHODS The Taiwan Cancer Registry Annual Report 2023, the Taiwan Cancer Registry Online Interactive Search System, and the 2023 Health Promotion Administration Annual Report are consulted and summarized. A literature search using PubMed was also conducted to identify Taiwan oral cancer control-related studies. RESULTS Taiwan, with a long history of areca/betel quid chewing, has battled with oral cancer for decades. In 2021, the male lip and oral cavity cancer incidence is 29.77 (per 100,000 persons) and mortality is 11.25. Over these years, the male chewing prevalence was reduced to 6.2% in 2018. Taiwan has a sustained national oral cancer screening programme provided to high-risk groups biennially. CONCLUSIONS Although the age-standardized incidence rates have been slowly decreasing since 2009, due to Taiwan's ageing population, the actual oral cancer burden is still stringent. The collaboration of multi-ministries and agencies on promoting areca nut and betel quid control, improving oral cancer awareness, and delivering cancer care remains essential to prevent oral cancer and reduce oral cancer deaths.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yi-Hsin Yang
- National Institute of Cancer Research, National Health Research Institutes, Tainan, Taiwan
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2
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Yin XG, Chen XZ, Qiu JL, Yu ZK, Chen LY, Huang SQ, Huang WN, Luo X, Zhu KW. A conjugate vaccine strategy that induces protective immunity against arecoline. Eur J Med Chem 2024; 268:116229. [PMID: 38430852 DOI: 10.1016/j.ejmech.2024.116229] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/11/2023] [Revised: 01/26/2024] [Accepted: 02/08/2024] [Indexed: 03/05/2024]
Abstract
Betel-quid chewing addiction is the leading cause of oral submucous fibrosis and oral cancer, resulting in significant socio-economic burdens. Vaccination may serve as a promising potential remedy to mitigate the abuse and combat accidental overdose of betel nut. Hapten design is the crucial factor to the development of arecoline vaccine that determines the efficacy of a candidate vaccine. Herein, we reported that two kinds of novel arecoline-based haptens were synthesized and conjugated to Bovine Serum Albumin (BSA) to generate immunogens, which generated antibodies with high affinity for arecoline but reduced binding for guvacoline and no affinity for arecaidine or guvacine. Notably, vaccination with Arec-N-BSA, which via the N-position on the tetrahydropyridine ring (tertiary amine group), led to a higher antibody affinity compared to Arec-CONH-BSA, blunted analgesia and attenuated hypothermia for arecoline.
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Affiliation(s)
- Xu-Guang Yin
- Center for Drug Delivery System Research, School of Medicine, Shaoxing University, 900 Chengnan Avenue, Shaoxing, Zhejiang, 312000, China
| | - Xiang-Zhao Chen
- Key Laboratory of Prevention and treatment of cardiovascular and cerebrovascular diseases of Ministry of Education, Gannan Medical University, Ganzhou, 341000, China
| | - Jia-Ling Qiu
- Center for Drug Delivery System Research, School of Medicine, Shaoxing University, 900 Chengnan Avenue, Shaoxing, Zhejiang, 312000, China
| | - Zhi-Kai Yu
- Center for Drug Delivery System Research, School of Medicine, Shaoxing University, 900 Chengnan Avenue, Shaoxing, Zhejiang, 312000, China
| | - Li-Yuan Chen
- Center for Drug Delivery System Research, School of Medicine, Shaoxing University, 900 Chengnan Avenue, Shaoxing, Zhejiang, 312000, China
| | - Si-Qi Huang
- Center for Drug Delivery System Research, School of Medicine, Shaoxing University, 900 Chengnan Avenue, Shaoxing, Zhejiang, 312000, China
| | - Wen-Na Huang
- Center for Drug Delivery System Research, School of Medicine, Shaoxing University, 900 Chengnan Avenue, Shaoxing, Zhejiang, 312000, China
| | - Xiang Luo
- Center for Drug Delivery System Research, School of Medicine, Shaoxing University, 900 Chengnan Avenue, Shaoxing, Zhejiang, 312000, China; Zhejiang Engineering Research Center of Fat-soluble Vitamin, School of Chemistry and Chemical Engineering, Shaoxing University, 900 Chengnan Avenue, Shaoxing, Zhejiang, 312000, China
| | - Ke-Wu Zhu
- Center for Drug Delivery System Research, School of Medicine, Shaoxing University, 900 Chengnan Avenue, Shaoxing, Zhejiang, 312000, China.
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3
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Hung CC, Ko YC, Chung CM. Association between Single Nucleotide Polymorphisms in Monoamine Oxidase and the Severity of Addiction to Betel Quid. Curr Issues Mol Biol 2024; 46:1010-1019. [PMID: 38392182 PMCID: PMC10887354 DOI: 10.3390/cimb46020064] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/14/2023] [Revised: 01/19/2024] [Accepted: 01/22/2024] [Indexed: 02/24/2024] Open
Abstract
Betel quid (BQ) is the fourth most popular psychoactive substance in the world, and BQ use disorder (BUD) is prevalent in Asian countries. Although the mechanisms underlying BUD remain unclear, studies have reported influences from monoamine oxidase inhibitor. We enrolled 50 patients with BUD and assessed their BQ consumption habits, emotional conditions, and the clinical severity of addiction-assessed using the Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders [Fifth Edition] (DSM-5) criteria, Substance Use Severity Rating Scale, and Yale-Brown Obsessive Compulsive Disorder Rating Scale for BQ. Patients were categorized into the severe group when showing six or more symptoms defined by DSM-5. A genome-wide association study was conducted for single nucleotide polymorphisms in BRCA1, COL9A1, NOTCH1, HSPA13, FAT1, and MAOA by using patients' blood samples. More severe BUD symptoms were associated with younger age of using BQ and poor oral hygiene and with severe craving for and more anxiety toward BQ use. The MAOA rs5953210 polymorphism was significantly associated with severe BUD (odds ratio, 6.43; 95% confidence interval, 5.12-7.74; p < 0.01) and might contribute to BQ-associated cancer risk. Further studies are required to investigate the addictive properties of BQ and the development of novel diagnostic tools and pharmacotherapeutic alternatives to BUD treatment.
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Affiliation(s)
- Chung-Chieh Hung
- School of Medicine, Chung Shan Medical University, Taichung 40201, Taiwan
- Department of Psychiatry, Chung Shan Medical University Hospital, Taichung 40201, Taiwan
| | - Ying-Chin Ko
- Department of Medical Research, China Medical University Hospital, China Medical University, Taichung 40447, Taiwan
- Graduate Institute of Toxicology, College of Medicine, National Taiwan University, Taipei 106216, Taiwan
| | - Chia-Min Chung
- Graduate Institute of Biomedical Sciences, China Medical University, Taichung 40402, Taiwan
- Department of Psychiatry and Center for Addiction and Mental Health, China Medical University Hospital, Taichung 404327, Taiwan
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4
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Herzog TA, Wilkens LR, Badowski G, Mendez AJP, Franke AA, Pokhrel P, Chennaux JSN, Tenorio LF, Sotto PP, Kawamoto CT, Paulino YC. The Betel Nut Intervention Trial (BENIT)-A Randomized Clinical Trial for Areca Nut and Betel Quid Cessation: Primary Outcomes. INTERNATIONAL JOURNAL OF ENVIRONMENTAL RESEARCH AND PUBLIC HEALTH 2023; 20:6622. [PMID: 37623205 PMCID: PMC10454381 DOI: 10.3390/ijerph20166622] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/19/2023] [Revised: 08/01/2023] [Accepted: 08/16/2023] [Indexed: 08/26/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Areca nut and betel quid (ANBQ) chewing is a widespread carcinogenic habit. The BENIT (ClinicalTrials-NCT02942745) is the first known randomized trial designed for ANBQ chewers. METHODS We compared the intensive behavioral treatment intervention condition (IC) with the control condition (CC) in the BENIT and included a 5-stage early stopping rule. We report the primary analysis at stage 3. English-literate adults in Guam and Saipan who self-identified as ANBQ chewers with tobacco were enrolled between August 2016 and August 2020. IC participants (n = 88) received five in-person sessions over 22 days and a brochure containing quitting advice. CC participants (n = 88) received only the brochure. Participants were assessed at baseline and on day 22 of follow-up. Self-reported chewing status at day 22 was determined by a composite of two survey items with disparate wording and response options for cross-verification. RESULTS Cessation rates were 38.6% (IC) and 9.1% (CC). Proportional hazards regression revealed a p = 0.0058, which met the Stage 3 criteria for significance, and an estimated reduction in ANBQ chewing for IC compared to the CC of 71% (95% CI: 41%-88%). CONCLUSIONS Robust self-reported intervention effects at day 22 suggest that intensive cessation programs such as BENIT should be further developed and implemented on a larger scale.
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Affiliation(s)
- Thaddeus A. Herzog
- University of Hawaii Cancer Center, University of Hawaii at Manoa, 701 Ilalo Street, Honolulu, HI 96813, USA (A.A.F.)
| | - Lynne R. Wilkens
- University of Hawaii Cancer Center, University of Hawaii at Manoa, 701 Ilalo Street, Honolulu, HI 96813, USA (A.A.F.)
| | - Grazyna Badowski
- University of Guam Cancer Research Center, University of Guam, Mangilao, GU 96923, USA (Y.C.P.)
| | - Ana Joy Pacilan Mendez
- University of Guam Cancer Research Center, University of Guam, Mangilao, GU 96923, USA (Y.C.P.)
| | - Adrian A. Franke
- University of Hawaii Cancer Center, University of Hawaii at Manoa, 701 Ilalo Street, Honolulu, HI 96813, USA (A.A.F.)
| | - Pallav Pokhrel
- University of Hawaii Cancer Center, University of Hawaii at Manoa, 701 Ilalo Street, Honolulu, HI 96813, USA (A.A.F.)
| | - Jade S. N. Chennaux
- University of Guam Cancer Research Center, University of Guam, Mangilao, GU 96923, USA (Y.C.P.)
| | - Lynnette F. Tenorio
- University of Guam Cancer Research Center, University of Guam, Mangilao, GU 96923, USA (Y.C.P.)
| | - Patrick P. Sotto
- University of Guam Cancer Research Center, University of Guam, Mangilao, GU 96923, USA (Y.C.P.)
| | - Crissy T. Kawamoto
- University of Hawaii Cancer Center, University of Hawaii at Manoa, 701 Ilalo Street, Honolulu, HI 96813, USA (A.A.F.)
| | - Yvette C. Paulino
- University of Guam Cancer Research Center, University of Guam, Mangilao, GU 96923, USA (Y.C.P.)
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Ko AMS, Tu HP, Ko YC. Systematic Review of Roles of Arecoline and Arecoline N-Oxide in Oral Cancer and Strategies to Block Carcinogenesis. Cells 2023; 12:1208. [PMID: 37190117 PMCID: PMC10137008 DOI: 10.3390/cells12081208] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 11.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/16/2023] [Revised: 04/11/2023] [Accepted: 04/19/2023] [Indexed: 05/17/2023] Open
Abstract
Betel quid and areca nut are complex mixture carcinogens, but little is known about whether their derived single-agent arecoline or arecoline N-oxide (ANO) is carcinogenic, and the underlying mechanisms remain unclear. In this systematic review, we analyzed recent studies on the roles of arecoline and ANO in cancer and strategies to block carcinogenesis. In the oral cavity, flavin-containing monooxygenase 3 oxidizes arecoline to ANO, and both alkaloids conjugate with N-acetylcysteine to form mercapturic acid compounds, which are excreted in urine, reducing arecoline and ANO toxicity. However, detoxification may not be complete. Arecoline and ANO upregulated protein expression in oral cancer tissue from areca nut users compared to expression levels in adjacent normal tissue, suggesting a causal relationship between these compounds and oral cancer. Sublingual fibrosis, hyperplasia, and oral leukoplakia were diagnosed in mice subjected to oral mucosal smearing of ANO. ANO is more cytotoxic and genotoxic than arecoline. During carcinogenesis and metastasis, these compounds increase the expression of epithelial-mesenchymal transition (EMT) inducers such as reactive oxygen species, transforming growth factor-β1, Notch receptor-1, and inflammatory cytokines, and they activate EMT-related proteins. Arecoline-induced epigenetic markers such as sirtuin-1 hypermethylation, low protein expression of miR-22, and miR-886-3-p accelerate oral cancer progression. Antioxidants and targeted inhibitors of the EMT inducers used reduce the risk of oral cancer development and progression. Our review findings substantiate the association of arecoline and ANO with oral cancer. Both of these single compounds are likely carcinogenic to humans, and their mechanisms and pathways of carcinogenesis are useful indicators for cancer therapy and prognosis.
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Affiliation(s)
- Albert Min-Shan Ko
- Department of Biomedical Sciences, Graduate Institute of Biomedical Sciences, Chang Gung University, Taoyuan 33302, Taiwan
- Cardiovascular Department, Chang Gung Memorial Hospital, Taoyuan 33302, Taiwan
- Health Aging Research Center, Chang Gung University, Taoyuan 33302, Taiwan
| | - Hung-Pin Tu
- Department of Public Health and Environmental Medicine, School of Medicine, College of Medicine, Kaohsiung Medical University, Kaohsiung 80756, Taiwan
| | - Ying-Chin Ko
- Department of Medical Research, China Medical University Hospital, China Medical University, No. 2 Yu-Der Road, Taichung 40447, Taiwan
- Graduate Institute of Toxicology, College of Medicine, National Taiwan University, Taipei 106216, Taiwan
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6
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Gupta R, Nethan ST, Sinha DN, Gupta S, Singh S. Systematic review of determinants and interventions of areca nut cessation: curbing a public health menace. J Public Health (Oxf) 2023; 45:145-153. [PMID: 35094090 DOI: 10.1093/pubmed/fdab411] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/23/2021] [Revised: 11/08/2021] [Accepted: 12/31/2021] [Indexed: 11/13/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Areca nut (AN) is a proven human carcinogen and a global public health menace. There is yet no review providing comprehensive information on the determinants and interventions available for cessation of AN. This systematic review was aimed at summarizing the available literature on drivers and interventions for cessation of AN chewing habit and to highlight the research lacunae. METHODS A systematic literature search (from 1990 till March 2021) was conducted for studies on AN cessation. Relevant data were extracted independently by two authors. RESULTS A total of 16 studies were included, which highlighted the influence of socio-cultural factors, addictive nature of AN and withdrawal symptoms as barriers to quitting. However, the knowledge of ill-effects of AN use on health, absence of concurrent alcohol use or smoking and family pressure were associated with likelihood of AN cessation. The interventions utilized for AN cessation have been behavioural in majority of the studies except for one where antidepressants were used for this purpose. CONCLUSIONS The current review emphasizes the imperative need of appropriate cessation strategies for AN chewing habit including enhancing awareness of the harmful effects and research into additional behavioural and pharmacologic cessation therapies to control this significant public health problem.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ruchika Gupta
- Division of Cytopathology, ICMR-National Institute of Cancer Prevention & Research, Noida, India
| | | | | | - Sanjay Gupta
- Division of Cytopathology, ICMR-National Institute of Cancer Prevention & Research, Noida, India
| | - Shalini Singh
- ICMR-National Institute of Cancer Prevention and Research, Noida, India
- WHO FCTC Global Knowledge Hub on Smokeless Tobacco, Noida, India
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7
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Abstract
Background Areca nut (AN) is one of the world's most widely used drugs, especially in Asia-Pacific, causing dependence and multiple adverse health impacts. The International Agency for Research on Cancer (IARC) has classified it as a type-1 carcinogen. Despite evidence of harms, its use is culturally ingrained in many regions worldwide; harm perception is low; and the availability of intervention strategies is limited. Methods To identify the range and efficacy of interventional studies on AN use cessation, a narrative review of studies published between 1990 and 2021 was undertaken using selected electronic databases (PubMed, Embase, and Scopus). Results Three types of interventions were identified: educational, psychological, and pharmacological. Overall, educational interventions significantly enhanced knowledge regarding harms related to AN use. Some psychological interventions reported enhancement of motivation to quit as well as helped in reduction/cessation of AN use. Two pharmacological studies on psychiatric patients with depressive disorders and AN use found that antidepressants helped in reducing/cessation of AN use. Conclusion Overall, the number of interventional studies on AN cessation is limited, and most studies have measured the short-term effects of the intervention. The role of pharmacotherapeutic interventions needs to be evaluated for AN cessation, and evidence-based psychosocial interventions need to be developed for AN cessation. Furthermore, longitudinal research using adequate sample sizes and longer follow-up durations are needed to establish interventions in this important area.
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Affiliation(s)
- Kriti Dhingra
- Institute of Liver and Biliary Sciences, New Delhi, India
| | - Sonali Jhanjee
- National Drug Dependence Treatment Centre (NDDTC), Dept. of Psychiatry, All India Institute of Medical Sciences (AIIMS), New Delhi, India
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8
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Abstract
Areca nut chewing is one of the major risk factors for oral cancer, with large-magnitude risks reported in studies comparing betel quid chewers and never users, and it has been evaluated as a group 1 carcinogen by the International Agency for Research on Cancer. Data from a high-quality meta-analysis examining risk estimates are presented in summary form with additional information from more recent studies (pooled adjusted relative risk, 7.9; 95% CI, 7.1 to 8.7). The risk of oral cancer increases in a dose-response manner with the daily number of quids consumed and the number of years chewing. In the Indian subcontinent and in Taiwan, approximately half of oral cancers reported are attributed to betel quid chewing (population attributable fraction, 53.7% for residents in Taiwan and 49.5% for the Indian population), a disease burden that could be prevented. Oral leukoplakia and oral submucous fibrosis are 2 main oral potentially malignant disorders caused by areca nut chewing that can progress to oral cancer with continued use. Ex-chewers seem to demonstrate lower risks than current chewers, but the impact of areca nut cessation on oral cancer risk has not been scientifically evaluated on the basis of randomized controlled studies. These data strongly reconfirm that betel quid chewing, primarily areca nut use, should be taken into account in assessing the cancer risk of South Asian, East Asian populations and Pacific Islanders for the development of oral cancer.
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Affiliation(s)
- S. Warnakulasuriya
- Faculty of Dentistry, Oral and Craniofacial Sciences, King’s College London, and the WHO Collaborating Centre for Oral Cancer, London, UK
- S. Warnakulasuriya, Faculty of Dentistry, Oral and Craniofacial Sciences, King’s College London, Denmark Hill, London, SE5 9RA, UK.
| | - T.H.H. Chen
- Institute of Epidemiology and Preventive Medicine, College of Public Health, National Taiwan University, Taipei
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9
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Kerr AR, Lodi G. Management of Oral Potentially Malignant Disorders. Oral Dis 2021; 27:2008-2025. [PMID: 34324758 DOI: 10.1111/odi.13980] [Citation(s) in RCA: 34] [Impact Index Per Article: 11.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/18/2021] [Revised: 07/07/2021] [Accepted: 07/22/2021] [Indexed: 11/29/2022]
Abstract
Patients with oral potentially malignant disorders (OPMDs), including oral leukoplakia and erythroplakia, proliferative verrucous leukoplakia, oral submucous fibrosis, and oral lichen planus/lichenoid lesions can be challenging to manage. A small proportion will undergo cancer development and determining a patient's cancer risk is key to making management decisions. Yet, our understanding of the natural history of OPMDs has not been fully elucidated, and a precision approach based on the integration of numerous predictive markers has not been validated by prospective studies. Evidence-based health promotion by clinicians and healthcare systems is not embraced universally. Medical and surgical interventions evaluated by rigorous research measuring important endpoints, such as cancer development, mortality, or survival are difficult and expensive to run. Most of these studies employ non-ideal surrogate endpoints and have deep methodologic flaws. Diagnostic criteria for enrolling research subjects are not uniform, and patients with the highest risk for cancer development comprise small proportions of those enrolled. Few studies explore quality of life and patient preferences. It is time to rethink how we approach the management of these patients, across each OPMD, and considering the healthcare infrastructure and cost effectiveness. Global networks with well-characterized patient populations with OPMDs and well-designed interventional trials using validated outcome measures are needed.
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Affiliation(s)
- A Ross Kerr
- Department of Oral & Maxillofacial Pathology, Radiology & Medicine.,New York University College of Dentistry, New York, NY, USA
| | - Giovanni Lodi
- Dipartimento di Scienze Biomediche, Chirurgiche e Odontoiatriche, Università degli Studi di Milano, Milano, Italia
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10
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Chung CM, Kuo TM, Yeh KT, Lee CH, Ko YC. Reduction in and Preventive Effects for Oral-Cancer Risk with Antidepressant Treatment. J Pers Med 2021; 11:jpm11070591. [PMID: 34201475 PMCID: PMC8307663 DOI: 10.3390/jpm11070591] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/04/2021] [Revised: 06/18/2021] [Accepted: 06/20/2021] [Indexed: 11/17/2022] Open
Abstract
Areca nut (AN) was identified as carcinogenic to humans. Around 600 million people globally use AN in some form, yet no effective therapeutic drug is available to overcome AN addiction. This preclinical study examines the effects of antidepressants on AN use with animal models. We produced AN powder and dissolved it into drinking water, training 55 C57BL/6 mice in free self-selection to drink AN water or normal water. Then, the mice were randomly divided into four groups. Selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors (SSRIs), monoamine oxidase inhibitors (MAOIs), and tricyclic antidepressants (TCAs) were given as three treatment groups and one placebo group for four weeks. In the follow-up period, the preference and amount of free selection of AN and normal water, and oral pathological change were evaluated. There was a significant decrease in preference for AN drinking during the first four weeks, and the 36th week after drug withdrawal in the MAOI and SSRI groups (all p < 0.05). The drug-reducing effect of AN water in the 1–4-week period was significant in the MAOI group (p < 0.0001) and was also significant in the 3–4-week period in the SSRI group (p = 0.03). The TCA group did not show a decrease effect. At the endpoint (60 weeks), oral mucosal fibrosis (OSF) levels and risk in the SSRI (p = 0.0081) and MAOI (p = 0.01) groups were significantly lower than those in the control group. Antidepressant drugs MAOIs and SSRIs could reduce the amount of AN use and decrease the early stage of oral fibrosis in mice, but SSRIs may need to be boosted again.
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Affiliation(s)
- Chia-Min Chung
- Center for Drug Abuse and Addiction, China Medical University Hospital, Taichung 40447, Taiwan;
- Graduate Institute of Biomedical Sciences, China Medical University, Taichung 40447, Taiwan
- Environment-Omics-Diseases Research Centre, China Medical University Hospital, China Medical University, No. 2 Yude Road, Taichung 40447, Taiwan;
| | - Tzer-Min Kuo
- Environment-Omics-Diseases Research Centre, China Medical University Hospital, China Medical University, No. 2 Yude Road, Taichung 40447, Taiwan;
| | - Kun-Tu Yeh
- Department of Pathology, Changhua Christian Hospital, Changhua 50006, Taiwan;
| | - Chien-Hung Lee
- Department of Public Health, College of Health Science, Kaohsiung Medical University, Kaohsiung 80708, Taiwan;
| | - Ying-Chin Ko
- Environment-Omics-Diseases Research Centre, China Medical University Hospital, China Medical University, No. 2 Yude Road, Taichung 40447, Taiwan;
- Correspondence: or ; Tel.: +886-4-2205-2121 (ext. 2028)
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11
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Athukorala IA, Tilakaratne WM, Jayasinghe RD. Areca Nut Chewing: Initiation, Addiction, and Harmful Effects Emphasizing the Barriers and Importance of Cessation. JOURNAL OF ADDICTION 2021; 2021:9967097. [PMID: 34123457 PMCID: PMC8192186 DOI: 10.1155/2021/9967097] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/18/2021] [Revised: 05/22/2021] [Accepted: 05/25/2021] [Indexed: 12/05/2022]
Abstract
Areca nut is a highly addictive substance with carcinogenic properties and causes many harmful effects to the human body. Alkaloids are the major chemicals found in areca nut, and their mechanism of action has been studied for several years. About 600 million people around the world use areca nut, and its usage is higher in Asian countries. Areca nut chewers get used to the habit mainly due to social influence, stress, or lack of awareness. Some studies have reported a dependence syndrome related to areca nut chewing. Even though there are many ongoing research studies regarding tobacco addiction, less concern has been given to the areca nut addiction. There are only few studies related to areca nut cessation, and even those few cessation programs are mainly designed using tobacco cessation methodology. Sociocultural influence, behavioral factors, and accessibility are the main barriers to cessation. Behavior changing interventions proved to be more effective in areca nut cessation, but recently studies on pharmacological therapies are also emerging.
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Affiliation(s)
- I. A. Athukorala
- Centre for Research in Oral Cancer, Faculty of Dental Sciences, University of Peradeniya, Peradeniya, Sri Lanka
| | - W. M. Tilakaratne
- Centre for Research in Oral Cancer, Faculty of Dental Sciences, University of Peradeniya, Peradeniya, Sri Lanka
- Department of Oral and Maxillofacial Clinical Sciences, Faculty of Dentistry, University of Malaya, Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia
| | - R. D. Jayasinghe
- Centre for Research in Oral Cancer, Faculty of Dental Sciences, University of Peradeniya, Peradeniya, Sri Lanka
- Department of Oral Medicine and Periodontology, Faculty of Dental Sciences, University of Peradeniya, Peradeniya, Sri Lanka
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12
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Sumithrarachchi SR, Jayasinghe R, Warnakulasuriya S. Betel Quid Addiction: A Review of Its Addiction Mechanisms and Pharmacological Management as an Emerging Modality for Habit Cessation. Subst Use Misuse 2021; 56:2017-2025. [PMID: 34396897 DOI: 10.1080/10826084.2021.1963990] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/20/2022]
Abstract
Areca-nut (AN) and added smokeless-tobacco (SLT) are considered agents that may cause addiction to betel-quid (BQ). However, the primary addictive substance in AN is not clearly understood. Objective: The present review evaluates possible addictive chemicals in AN with their mechanisms of action for progression to BQ dependence, as it is essential to overcome barriers in BQ cessation. It also identifies innovative treatment modalities in BQ cessation including the scope for research on pharmacotherapy using Monoamine-oxidase Inhibitors, Selective Serotonin Re-uptake Inhibitors and Norepinephrine Dopamine Reuptake Inhibitors. Methods: This is a narrative review on addictive properties of BQ and trials undertaken to promote cessation of SLT or AN use. Results: Twenty interventional studies, three by behavioral therapy and seventeen using pharmacotherapy were reviewed. There was heterogeneity in reported follow up times, most studies reporting data at 12 weeks with abstinence rates of 45-55% for SLT cessation and at 8 weeks with abstinence rates around 35% for AN cessation. Conclusion: Even though literature reveals a few cessation programs through behavioral support for BQ addiction, its success has been limited in certain instances mainly due to addictive properties of AN, resulting in withdrawal and relapse. Hence, in line with pharmacotherapy in tobacco smoking cessation, potential pharmacological agents to assist in cessation of SLT and AN require more attention. Several clinical trials for SLT cessation have been carried out with varying levels of success using Nicotine Replacement Therapy and Varenicline while trials on antidepressants for SLT and AN cessation are also emerging.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Ruwan Jayasinghe
- Centre for Research in Oral Cancer, Faculty of Dental Sciences, University of Peradeniya, Kandy, Sri Lanka.,Department of Oral Medicine and Periodontology, Faculty of Dental Sciences, University of Peradeniya, Kandy, Sri Lanka
| | - Saman Warnakulasuriya
- Faculty of Dentistry, Oral & Craniofacial Sciences, King's College London, London, UK.,WHO Collaborating Centre for Oral Cancer, London, UK
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13
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Ko AMS, Lee CH, Ko AMJ, Ko YC. Betel quid dependence mechanism and potential cessation therapy. Prog Neuropsychopharmacol Biol Psychiatry 2020; 103:109982. [PMID: 32454163 DOI: 10.1016/j.pnpbp.2020.109982] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/28/2020] [Revised: 05/22/2020] [Accepted: 05/22/2020] [Indexed: 12/12/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Global reports estimate the number of betel quid (BQ) chewers up to 600 million. The proportion of betel quid dependence (BQD) is 20%-90% among current users. BQD mechanisms are not fully understood, and no pharmacological solution exists for its cessation therapy. METHODS We present a systematic review on BQD mechanisms and examine potential cessation therapeutic drugs. We conducted a systematic literature search in PubMed and Web of Science databases and identified the latest 10 years' relevant articles for reviews. RESULTS Functional magnetic resonance imaging results demonstrate that neurological mechanisms link the brain reward, cognitive, and impulsive systems in BQ or BQD users. The use of the areca nut increases both brain serotonin and noradrenaline levels, whereas arecoline, a potentially addictive areca nut component, has monoamine oxidase-A (MAO-A) inhibitor-like properties. MAO-A inhibitors prevent neurotransmitter breakdown and increase dopamine and serotonin concentrations in the brain. A reduction of daily BQ use was observed among patients with depression after antidepressant therapy, including MAO-A inhibitor and selective serotonin reuptake inhibitor (SSRI). Arecoline is a nicotinic acetylcholine receptor agonist expressed in Xenopus oocytes. However, relatively negligible amounts of nicotine are detected in the areca nut. CONCLUSION In conclusion, the current evidence provides a better understanding of the neurological and pharmacological mechanisms behind BQD. Arecoline, an MAO-A inhibitor, may account for BQD. Future translational studies are needed to verify the efficacy of potential BQD cessation drugs. MAO-A inhibitor and SSRI would thus be potentially promising targets for clinical trials.
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Affiliation(s)
- Albert Min-Shan Ko
- Key Laboratory of Vertebrate Evolution and Human Origins of Chinese Academy of Sciences, Institute of Vertebrate Paleontology and Paleoanthropology, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing, China
| | - Chien-Hung Lee
- Department of Public Health and Research Center for Environment Medicine, Kaohsiung Medical University, Kaohsiung, Taiwan; Department of Medical Research, Kaohsiung Medical University Hospital, Kaohsiung, Taiwan
| | - Allen Min-Jen Ko
- Medical Imaging and Radiology, Alpenglow Australia, Sydney, New South Wales, Australia
| | - Ying-Chin Ko
- Environment-Omics-Disease Research Center, China Medical University Hospital, China Medical University, Taichung, Taiwan; Graduate Institute of Toxicology, College of Medicine, National Taiwan University, Taipei, Taiwan.
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