Evaluating Gustatory Changes in Long-Term Nicotine Users

Abstract

Background: Nicotine consumption, whether through smoking, vaping, or other methods, is known to influence various sensory perceptions, including reward, antinociception, and aversion due to bitter taste, irritation, and adverse effects. This study aims to assess gustatory changes in long-term nicotine users and investigate the associated neurobiological processes.

Methodology: This pilot cross-sectional study was conducted in Karachi, Pakistan, from February to March 2023. A total of 100 male participants were categorized into four groups: control (non-nicotine users), smokers, chew tobacco/gutka users, and nicotine patch users. The gustatory function was evaluated using ODOFIN Taste Strips, which represent four basic tastes: sweet, sour, salty, and bitter. Participants underwent a taste screening test, where they tasted each strip and identified the corresponding taste. Correct identifications were scored as 1, and incorrect responses as 0, resulting in total taste scores ranging from 0 to 4. Data collection focused on participants' responses during the taste screening tests.

Results: The mean age of participants was 31.80 ± 7.23 years. Descriptive statistics revealed variations in nicotine usage among the groups. One-way ANOVA analysis demonstrated a statistically significant difference in the frequency of nicotine use across the groups (p = 0.032). Furthermore, taste detection scores exhibited a statistically significant difference among the groups (p = 0.002).

Conclusion: This pilot study suggests that nicotine usage predominantly affects the identification of bitter taste, with the extent of impact varying based on the mode of nicotine consumption.