A recent study conducted by Loughborough University and commissioned by the Professional Footballers’ Association (PFA) has unveiled an alarming trend within the professional football community. The study, which involved 628 male players from Premier League or EFL clubs and 51 players from the Women’s Super League, revealed that an estimated one in five male and female professional footballers are currently using snus, nicotine pouches, or both.
The report indicates that the actual prevalence of usage may be even higher, as some players may be reluctant to disclose their use, even in an anonymous survey. The study found that 18% of the male players and 22% of the female players surveyed reported current usage of these products, with two out of five having tried the pouches at least once in the past.
The study identified several key reasons for the usage of these products among footballers. Improved mental readiness and relaxation were cited as perceived benefits, with a significant percentage of players reporting these reasons for use.
However, the report also highlighted the potential negative physical impacts of using snus, including an increased risk of certain types of cancer and cardiovascular disease. It is important to note that snus contains tobacco and is not legally available in the UK, while tobacco-free nicotine pouches, which are more commonly used among players, are legal. Despite the legality of these products, there are still potential risks and implications associated with their use.
The study also found that the prevalence of use acted as a barrier to quitting, with some players expressing difficulty in attempting to quit due to the pervasive nature of these products in the footballing environment. Additionally, the report emphasized the risk of unintentional doping violations if players use contaminated products purchased online or via social media.
In light of these findings, the report recommended personalized external support for players looking to quit and emphasized the importance of avoiding stigmatization of those seeking help. It also suggested that club bans had not been effective in deterring use.
Overall, the study sheds light on an important issue within professional football and underscores the need for increased awareness, support, and intervention to address the prevalence of tobacco and nicotine product use among players.
