Snus is made from finely ground tobacco leaves with added flavouring, preservatives and other additives. Snus contains a large amount of nicotine, which is highly addictive. The sale of snuff is not permitted in Finland.
The nicotine in snus increases blood pressure and the risk of cardiovascular diseases. According to some studies, snus increases the risk of type 2 diabetes.
The use of snus causes alterations in the mucous membranes of the mouth, which increase the risk of oral cancer. Snus causes the gums to retreat as well as infections and caries in the exposed roots of the teeth. This may further impair oral health which, in the case of diabetes, is hard enough as it is.