According to the U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, nearly one-fourth of Americans are smokers.

That's more than 60 million people, who are at increased risk for lung cancer, the leading cause of cancer-related deaths nationwide.

Despite the risks, many people have trouble kicking this addictive habit.
As a result, health officials and doctors are trying to find less harmful alternatives to cigarette smoking.

But some products, like smokeless tobacco, may not be effective replacements, according to a new research.

"While new products are being developed and marketed as less harmful alternatives to cigarettes, they should be evaluated for efficacy in reducing smoking use, as well as actual reduced incidence of related diseases", said William G. Nelson of Johns Hopkins University.

"Some individuals might feel a false sense of security if they believe snuff is safer than cigarettes or could help them quit smoking", Stephen S. Hecht of University of Minnesota said.

"If they switch to snuff, they will have long-term carcinogen exposure", he added.

The conclusion is that snuff and chewing tobacco is not an alternative to smoking, especially since harmless medicinal nicotine products are available.