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
Question Hey Michael,
right now im 16 and im in a stage of smoking where im not addicted in the way im craving cigarettes all the time, i only smoke when im angry, when im really stressed or having fun with friends which means ill smoke about 5-6 a month in a bad month.
My problem right now is that im looking for a way to stop before i become properly addicted without loosing out on my social life and without involving my parents. quite a few of my friends smoke and im always tempted by that. are there any methods that you know of that I can use to mentally tell myself thst I don't need this and I can go without.
Thanks
Answer Dear Gaz,
You are very smart to want to quit now while the problem is not bad. There is very good data that the younger you become addicted, the worse it is to quit. I agree with doing this with will power for now.
I'd suggest you read "The EasyWay to Quit Smoking" by Allen Carr. He explains how smoking has no positive benefit in your 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. If you live in the US you should 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.
You cold use nicotine gum, it is better than smoking, but I worry that you will get more nicotine dependent.
It is good to learn how to deal with stress and anger now:
I know peer pressure is tough. But try explaining to your friends that you are quitting. If they are true friends they will be supportive. I would talk to them one-on-one. I bet some of them want to quit too, if they are honest.
Good luck, and let me know how this goes,
Michael
Michael Dean, Ph.D.
Author "Empty Cribs-The Impact of Smoking on Child Health"
http//www.artsciencepub.com
