Uterine cervical dysplasia with reference to the betel quid chewing habit.

Systemic effects of betel quid are poorly documented compared to its local effects on the mucosa of the oral cavity and pharynx. In the present study dysplastic activity of the betel quid on exfoliated uterine cervical cells was studied and compared with women addicted to other habits or nothing. That the mutagenic changes at cellular level are associated with prolonged use of betel quid is suggested.