Snuff - ground-up moist tobacco usually placed between the bottom lip and gum. This is also referred to as "dipping".

Chew - shredded tobacco leaves placed between the cheek and gum. This is also referred to as "a wad".

Plug - shredded tobacco leaves which are pressed into a hard block and placed between the cheek and gum.

(See more information below.)

Surveys show that two out of three players who use smokeless (spit) tobacco would like to quit! Over half of the players who chew or dip report gum problems and dental disease.

Recently, both professional baseball (minor leagues) and junior hockey (Western Hockey League) have banned the use of smokeless (spit) tobacco by players, coaches and officials.

Why do some athletes use smokeless (spit) tobacco?

Many try dipping out of curiosity or encouragement from a friend or team-mate. In the past, tobacco companies provided free smokeless tobacco (as free advertising) to players and their teams.

It doesn't take long to become hooked. Many find once they start it's hard to stop.

• Former Chicago Cubs first-baseman Steve Fox chewed tobacco for six years. He developed white patches in his mouth and a sore on his tongue that wouldn't heal. His doctors told him he had mouth cancer. Half of his tongue had to be removed.
• Sean Marsee, an Oklahoma track star, started using snuff when he was 12 years old. He died of mouth cancer at the age of 19.

Here are a few tips that can help you get out of a tough situation, and still keep your friends.

• Leave the area.
• Appear to be busy, deep in thought or distracted.
• Make an excuse, such as homework, chores or helping your parents.
• Change the subject.
• Make a joke out of it. "Yes, I'd really like to have my lips turn black".
• Act shocked. "I can't believe you're going to do that".
• Use flattery. "You're too smart to do that".
• Suggest a better idea and put it into action.
• Return the challenge. "Are you too scared to do it by yourself?"
• Explain the dangers of chewing, thereby making the suggestion seem completely ridiculous.
• Just say NO and say it in a steady, confident voice.

For more information, contact the dental health co-ordinator in your health region.