CONSUMO DE TABACO DE MASCAR (CHIMÓ) EN LA PRÁCTICA DE SOFTBALL EN MÉRIDA, VENEZUELA

Abstract

In recent years, the consumption of chewing tobacco (chimo) has been recognized in Venezuela as a public health problem. Chimo is a derivative of tobacco that contains many toxic products. Despite this, the consumption of chimo has not been paid enough attention, especially in the sports field; Studies are needed that include clinical, epidemiological and sociocultural aspects in the practice of sports that have been associated with the consumption of chewing or smokeless tobacco in the Anglo-Saxon environment, such as baseball and softball. Therefore, this research aims to describe the consumption of chimo by people involved in the practice of softball in championships and tournaments that are held in Merida, Venezuela. The study is based on the quantitative paradigm, with a descriptive scope and a transectional design. The sample is made up of 321 participants: players, managers of the participating teams, technical personnel and the organizing committee of the leagues. For data collection, the survey technique was used, using a 12-item questionnaire. The data were analyzed using descriptive statistics: frequency and context of consumption, motivating factors and role of the chimo in softball practice. It was found that this consumption is a frequent habit that includes about a third of those involved, without distinction of age or time of sport. Although there are regulations for hygiene reasons, it is widely consumed on the playing field, in offensive and defensive situations, and in dugouts. The reason for consumption is mainly associated with the psychological effects it offers for the management of anxiety, stressful events and to achieve greater concentration. However, negative physiological effects are also attributed to it, such as dizziness, nausea and respiratory distress, which prevent the optimal practice of this sport.