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 Hi,
I casually smoke, meaning some days I don't smoke. Other days like a chimney. When drinking, it is the most. Probably a few packs a week. Is there a safer cigarette or less bad one for you? Not a great question, but I'd like to know of alternatives or maybe there isn't one. Smoking is nothing good for the body, but I lack the decision to stop completely. I've stopped on occasion for a few days or for a week or so when sick, but always light up again. As crazy as it is, the fear of something going wrong isn't enough for me to put it down right now. I've been up and down for a decade or more. What are some ideas you have for slowing down?
Thanks
Answer Dear Mike,
There is no safer cigarette. Except for quitting the only thing that helps is to smoke less. You should quit now before you become more addicted. It will only get harder. Many people take several attempts to quit.
There are of course many methods to quit.
You can try cold turkey. 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. 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.
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.
Nicotine replacement therapy is another option. Patches, gums etc. all work for many people.
Can you stay out of situations where you might smoke, at least for a month or two? Are there non-smoking bars where you live?
