Betel Nut Chewing and Selected Psychophysiological Variables

Abstract

28 male operators of earth movers, with an average age of 30 years, after chewing various quantities of betel nut, volunteered to participate in a laboratory study of visual choice-reaction time, digit span, eye-hand coordination, pulse rate, and blood pressure. Analysis of variance identified a statistically significant increase in pulse rate only. Given no significant decrement in scores on any work-related measure, discussion concerns the possible use of betel nut at the work place and particularly as an antidote for drivers' fatigue. Limitations of the study, implications of the findings, and suggestions for research are discussed.