Objective: In this study, we evaluated carotid artery intima-media thickness (CIMT), an early marker of atherosclerosis in smokers and Maras powder users, and serum gamma glutamyl transferase (GGT) levels, which is a marker of oxidative damage.

Methods: The study included 27 men who do not smoke but use maras powder, 32 men who smoke but do not use maras powder and 30 men who neither smoke nor use Maras powder as the control group. Serum levels of GGT and lipid profiles were measured and the results were compared between the groups. CIMT was measured by Doppler ultrasonography.

Results: Mean CIMT was found as 0.79±0.09 mm, 0.74±0.08 mm and 0.55±0.08 mm in Maras powder, smoking and control groups; respectively. The difference among the groups was statistically significant (p<0.001). Plasma levels of total cholesterol, low-density lipoprotein-cholesterol and triglyceride were significantly higher in the Maras powder and smoking groups than in the control group (p<0.001). Plasma levels of high-density lipoprotein-cholesterol levels were significantly lower in the Maras powder and smoking groups than in the control group (p<0.001). Serum GGT levels were found significantly higher in the Maras powder and smoking groups compared to the control group (p<0.001).

Conclusion: This study reveals that Maras powder is as effective as cigarette smoking on increasing of oxidative stress, which plays a role in the pathogenesis of many diseases. Our results suggest that CIMT is an important marker of cardiovascular complications in Maras powder users and smokers as a non-invasive method.