AboutMichael Dean Expertise Can answer
General information on tobacco addiction, and resources for quitting.
Information on current cancer research and the health effects of tobacco.
The risk of smoking for lung cancer and other cancers, as well as SIDS, heart disease, and vision loss.
The best place to start is 1-800-QUIT-NOW
Cannot answer
Specific medical questions
Experience Cancer Researcher for over 20 years
Author of the book "Empty Cribs-The impact of smoking on child health" www.artsciencepub.com.
Author of over 200 scientific articles on cancer, genetics and human disease.
Multiple interviews in print, TV and radio media.
Organizations American Association for Cancer Research
American Association of Human Genetics
Publications Scientific journals (Science, Nature, NE Journal Medicine, etc.)
Scientific American, Discovery Medicine, Nature Reviews in Cancer
Education/Credentials PhD. in Biochemistry from Boston University School of Medicine
Awards and Honors Young Investigator award-American Association of Cancer Research
Expert: Michael Dean Date: 1/30/2008 Subject: Vicks
Question Hi Michael!
I have a friend who pastes a thick layer of Vicks on his cigarette before smoking it. He says his entire family, well the smokers, do it and they are just fine....Is this action safe? The warnings state Not For Internal use...would this be classified as internal use?
Answer Hi Lee-Ann,
Hmm, that is a new one. I can't see anything like that online,,, but of course a lot of people smoke menthols.
I doubt that smoking Vicks is good for you, but certainly the tobacco is far worse!!!
I'd suggest you get your friend this book "The EasyWay to Quit Smoking" by Allen Carr. He explains how smoking has no positive benefit in life and the many advantages of quitting. The book has been a best seller in Europe for many years, and you might find it useful. He can also call 1-800-QUIT-Now and find out about resources in your state. Some states provide free therapy and telephone quitlines, and these are useful.
There are a number of new drug therapies that are highly effective. Talk to your doctor about prescribing both Chantix and Zyban. Chantix is a new drug that blocks nicotine's action. Zyban helps in reducing anxiety and withdrawal symptoms. Pfizer provides an online counseling program along with Zyban.
