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 I am trying to quit smoking. I've never been a heavy smoker and ranged from 1-7 cigs per day on average over 15 years. I can get down to 1 a day, but I can't seem to go less than one. The patch helped, but even when I cut a 7 mg patch in half, it's still giving me more nicotine than I would get if I just had 1 cig. What can you recommend?
Answer Dear Nick,
You are right to try to quit all the way. You could try the gum or lozenges where you can get a dose just when you need it. There are also nasal sprays.
I would try that before going to Chantix or Zyban. Those need a prescription, but some states and some insurance companies cover them.
Let me know if that works. It helps me counsel future inquirers.
