Abstract:
The Cordillera Region showcases a diversity of culture and ecology. The various ethno linguistic groups that inhibit the region observe their own practice and beliefs which are complementary to their environment.
This study was conducted to delve on the experiences of BSU students who are betel nut chewers. Specifically, the study aimed to explore the socio-cultural factors contributing to the prevalence of betel nut chewing at BSU La Trinidad Campus.
Betel Nut, is the fruit of Areca Palm, is being chewed with a leaf(gawed), nut(bua), and a lime (apog). The gathered data provide new knowledge on betel nut chewing and a broader understanding on betel nut chewing as viewed and practiced by they different Ethno linguistic group in the Cordilleras.
The study made use of the Qualitative Exploratory Research Design where unstructured/nondescript guide questions were used to expound the untold stories of BSU Students about the socio-cultural factors contributing to their betel nut chewing.
Key informant interview and observation were applied to gather information from the sixteen (16) students participants who came from the following ethnic affiliation: Ifugao, Kankana-ey and Bontoc of Mountain Province, Ibalio, and Kankana-ey of Benguet.
They are selected on their availability and willingness to be participants of the study. Their responses were sorted and coded. All data were analyzed qualitatively based on the responses given by the key informants.
The findings revealed that betel nut chewing started since time immemorial in the Cordilleras. It is form of socialization among the community members, and it is passed on from generation to generation. Betel nut chewing is being practice both by old young generation of the Cordillera until now. Influence of friends, curiosity, landscape and culture, availability and accessibility of betel nut were the factors contributing to the prevalence of Betel Nut chewing in BSU.
Perceived health effects of Betel Nut chewing according to the key informants include the following: (a) makes their teeth and gums sturdy and strong, (b) it staves/suppress their hunger and serves as their snack and appetizer.
In addition, betel nut chewing has also emotional and psychological effects, namely: alleviates of their feelings from being stressed and relieves tension. On the other hand, has an also negative effect such as lowers self-esteem resulting to constant bullying and the color of the spit is a public eye sore. Burning sensation, redness of teeth, dizziness and vomiting, bad breath and dirty mouth are the physical effects.
Despite of the policies and guidelines implemented by the Office of Study Services to stop betel nut chewing in the campus, students still continue chewing because it become their practice. Furthermore, they do not believe on the negative effects of betel nut to health like it causes cancer because according to them none of their ancestors or elders died of cancer connected to betel nut chewing.
