12/02/2026
"Momma" can cause oral cancer, City Dentist warns
Dr. Brenda De Leon, head of the Dental Unit at the City Health Services Office (CHSO), explained that the chemical compounds produced by "momma" (also known as nganga) can lead to permanent tooth staining or, more severely, oral cancer.
Beyond its addictive properties, momma is classified as a Group 1 carcinogen by the World Health Organization (WHO), indicating sufficient evidence that it causes cancer in humans. Dr. De Leon further emphasized that adding to***co to the mixture significantly increases this risk.
Dr. De Leon is appealing to the public to reduce or avoid chewing momma altogether, and strongly advises those who have never tried it to refrain from starting.
The CHSO led by Dr. Celia Flor Brillantes, invites residents to visit their District Health Centers to avail of dental services with a very minimal fee.
"Momma" can cause oral cancer, City Dentist warns
Dr. Brenda De Leon, head of the Dental Unit at the City Health Services Office (CHSO), explained that the chemical compounds produced by "momma" (also known as nganga) can lead to permanent tooth staining or, more severely, oral cancer.
Beyond its addictive properties, momma is classified as a Group 1 carcinogen by the World Health Organization (WHO), indicating sufficient evidence that it causes cancer in humans. Dr. De Leon further emphasized that adding to***co to the mixture significantly increases this risk.
Dr. De Leon is appealing to the public to reduce or avoid chewing momma altogether, and strongly advises those who have never tried it to refrain from starting.
The CHSO led by Dr. Celia Flor Brillantes, invites residents to visit their District Health Centers to avail of dental services with a very minimal fee.