At least 20% of professional footballers use snus or nicotine pouches

Supporters say snus can help people quit smoking, but it still contains high levels of nicotine and evidence suggests a higher risk of oesophagus and pancreatic cancer — as well as cardiovascular disease. File picture: iStock

At least a fifth of professional footballers are currently using potentially dangerous snus, nicotine pouches or both, according to a new survey in Britain, commissioned by the Professional Footballers Association (PFA) and undertaken by Loughborough University.

Snus is a smokeless nicotine product placed between the upper lip and gumline. Supporters say it can help people quit smoking, but it still contains high levels of nicotine and evidence suggests a higher risk of oesophagus and pancreatic cancer — as well as cardiovascular disease.