Plan to be Tobacco Free!

By Shannon Long, RN, BSN, CHC, Methodist Health, Prevention and Wellness Services

Statistics are everywhere about the harm tobacco use can cause to our health, as it increases the risk of heart disease, stroke, many types of cancer, and pulmonary disease. Cigarette smoking is the leading preventable cause of death in the United States.

According to the American Lung Association, although adult and youth smoking rates in Kentucky are at a near all-time low, there has been a rise in the use of e-cigarettes and other tobacco products.

Why is tobacco cessation so difficult?
If you have never been addicted to nicotine, it is difficult to understand why a tobacco user cannot simply stop smoking cigarettes, dipping or using other forms of tobacco. Individuals who smoke not only have a bad habit but a physical addiction to nicotine. While nicotine is a powerful drug that can be as addicting as heroin, it temporarily elevates our mood, decreases appetite, increases memory and focus and helps with anxiety and relaxation. However, when the drug levels of nicotine drop, the body craves more and the cycle continues.

Are e-cigarettes a safe alternative to tobacco?
E-cigarettes are not regulated by the FDA. There is no evidence indicating they are safe or help with tobacco cessation. Most contain nicotine, flavoring and other harmful chemicals. With over 8,000 flavors and clever packaging, e-cigarettes are very appealing to our youth. Studies show they trust these products but can often misuse them or they can malfunction causing physical harm. The CDC has concerns that using e-cigarettes causes an addiction to nicotine and furthers the use of tobacco products.

Where can I go for support?
Talk to your health care provider about the right FDA approved medications for tobacco cessation. It is important to have a plan that works for you on your journey to be tobacco free.

• Call 1-800-QUIT-NOW for 24/7 services available to all.
• Attend a free one-hour Plan to Be Tobacco Free meeting at Methodist Health Prevention and Wellness Services (June 28, 2018 and July 26, 2018).
• Join a tobacco cessation support group. Methodist Health has trained Freedom From Smoking facilitators (August 9, 2018, introduction class).

About Shannon Long, RN, BSN, CHC
Shannon Long is a Registered Nurse and Wellness Supervisor in Prevention and Wellness Services at Methodist Health. Call 270-826-4646 for more information about smoking and smoking cessation programs.