A new Norwegian study from 2025, published in Tobacco Induced Diseases, analyzed responses from more than 800 snus users.
Nearly 60 percent had tried to quit, and more than half were planning another attempt.
Among those who had tried to quit, 71 percent had done so more than once.
The researchers found that previous failed attempts do not necessarily reduce the desire to quit.
Also read: Elon Musk: Medical education will become pointless in the future
On the contrary, repeated attempts are often a sign of continued motivation.
Addiction in the body and the mind
According to Folkehelseinstituttet, snus addiction is both physical and psychological.
Nicotine creates a stable level in the bloodstream that the body becomes accustomed to.
When users stop, they may experience symptoms such as headaches, dizziness, and mild nausea. Habits also play a major role.
Also read: Putin’s Russian Viagra disappoints despite massive state support
Senior researcher Karl Erik Lund from Folkehelseinstituttet explains to Forskning.no that “snus is a form of self-medication”.
For many, snus is used to cope with stress and becomes an integral part of everyday life.
Health is not the main reason
The Norwegian Institute of Public Health has previously shown that snus may be associated with an increased risk of, among other things, cardiovascular disease and certain cancers.
Nevertheless, the 2025 study shows that around half of snus users are not concerned about their health.
Also read: Monk fruit may be more than an sugar substitute, scientists say
According to Karl Erik Lund, the desire to quit is more often about breaking free from a compulsive addiction or saving money.
The point, therefore, is that willpower alone is rarely enough. A concrete plan for how to manage cravings is crucial for success.
Sources: Forskning.no, Tobacco Induced Diseases, and Folkehelseinstituttet.
Also read: Why cervical cancer is often detected late - and how to prevent it
Also read: Throat cancer often starts without pain - here’s what to watch for