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: 9/1/2007 Subject: Nicorette Gum
Question I quit smoking DEC 2006 with Nicorette 2mg gum. I chew about 15 pieces a day. I smoked for 35 years 2-3 packs a day. I have lost about 20 pounds in the last 9 months but am still chewing the gum. Is there any big health risk with continuing with the gum?
Answer Dear Barbara,
That is great that you have stayed quit that long. And the loss of weight is great too. So much for the myth that people gain weight when they quit.
There is nothing wrong with continuing on the gum. Nicotine by itself is pretty harmless. If you were to give up the gum I would do it all at once, rather than gradually. A prescription from a doctor for bupropion might help with nicotine withdrawal.
But if things are going good why mess with it. Enjoy your freedom from smoking and new found health.
I hope this helps.
Michael Dean, Ph.D.
Author "Empty Cribs-The Impact of Smoking on Child Health"
http//www.artsciencepub.com
