Meaning, Value, and Patterns of the Betel Quid Chewing among Elderly in Ban Peng Keling, Mae Chan Subdistrict, Umphang District, Tak Province
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Abstract
This qualitative study aimed to examine the meanings, values, and patterns of betel quid chewing among the elderly in Ban Peng Keling, Mae Chan Sub-district, Umphang District, Tak Province. This area, located along the Thai–Myanmar border, is notable for its extensive areca palm cultivation and has the highest reported incidence of oral cancer in the district. Betel quid chewing remains a prevalent cultural practice among the elderly population. Data were collected from 13 elderly individuals aged 60 years and above, selected through purposive sampling. All participants were current or former betel quid chewers and were able to communicate in either Thai or Karen languages. In-depth interviews and observations were conducted between August and December 2024. The study found that the meanings associated with betel quid chewing among the elderly in Ban Peng Keling could be categorized into three main themes: Betel quid chewing as a leisure activity, perceived as a normal and enjoyable part of daily life; even children, teenagers, and adults in the community enjoy chewing. It is further perceived as relatively harmless, with key informants believing that betel quid poses minimal risk to oral health, while also serving as a means to alleviate drowsiness and enhance alertness. Regarding the patterns of betel quid chewing in the community, two types were identified: homemade betel quid and betel quid purchased from local shops. The elderly preferred homemade betel quid, citing better taste, cleanliness, and safety compared to the shop-bought variety. It is recommended that knowledge dissemination on the health risks of betel quid chewing should be enhanced among the elderly.
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