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: 11/25/2007 Subject: side affects of long term use of nicotine gum
Question i have been using generic nicotine gum for one year. after six months of use ,my left leg began at the knee joint developed some minor pain .but with no swelling of the knee.i have had minor pain in this leg since i was a child ,once every four to five years .with continuous use of nicotine gum as a sub for smoking. could some of the components of the artificial nicotine be effecting my knee joint.
Answer Dear Stewart,
First, congratulation on quitting and staying quit.
I see no evidence that nicotine causes leg pain. In fact nicotine can be used as a pain reliever. Since you have had this off and on as a child, I think it is unrelated to the nicotine.
I would see a doctor and have it checked out. It could be the result of an old injury, or mild arthritis.
