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You CAN Quit Smoking Forever!

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• Quit Smoking Help from SmokefreeTXT
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SmokefreeTXT is a free mobile service designed for young adults across the United States. SmokefreeTXT was created to provide 24/7 encouragement, advice, and tips to help smokers stop smoking for good. It is provided by smokefree.gov. If you are interested here are the details.

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First you must realize that quitting is not about assigning blame. But about providing solutions. Look at your smoking as a problem that you have already solved. That's right! Look at it as a done deal. Something you beat and just need to recall the solution. And above all you must be persistent and insistent in your search.

The blame game is a losing activity. Blaming the cigarette companies for hooking you is a waste of time (even if it is true). Blaming your self for getting hooked in the first place is not going to get you where you want to be either.

How do you quit smoking? You quit smoking by becoming active and solving the problem. There is tons of advice available all over the place and some might actually work. You just have to keep looking and don't ever give up.

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“Quit Smoking” is the phrase of the hour. We all know that smoking is bad news to your health and the health of those around you too. It has very severe bad effects like breathing problems, lung cancer, breast cancer, bronchitis, emphysema, and reproductive problems. That is just the tip of the iceberg. Is there a doubt we should free ourselves from the clutches of the deadly disease? However, it is not an easy task to actually quit smoking forever once you have started it. Smoking makes a you its slave and you becomes addicted to its use.

Difficult but not impossible.
It is difficult but not impossible to quit smoking. The most important attribute that a person needs to have to quit smoking is persistence. It is difficult to stay away from smoking in the initial stages but with the help of adequate medical aid and persistence, a person can overcomes the initial bouts to smoke, then they will be the master over this deadly disease.

Love yourself and do not let the ill effects of smoking show on God's greatest creation, YOU. As an aid to help, quit smoking a person should regularly exercise and meditate. This keeps you physically fit and mentally strong. You should also eat a proper diet, because a proper diet not only satisfies the body’s needs but also promises to deliver a trim and healthy you, producing undeniable pride and happiness in your body, mind and spirit.

Chain smokers should delay the next cigarette even for just five minutes. In the meantime, they should keep their hands busy and minds diverted from the thoughts of smoking. They should drink water to keep cool and calm and practice deep breathing. If still the urge is irresistible, they can resort to use of sugar-free chewing gums or read a good book.

Seek Specialists Help.
Have you thought about an acupuncture specialist? Or use an aromatherapy specialist? Be persistent and make concerted efforts to bring the smoking addiction to its knees.

A Promise to Yourself.
Take a vow this minute that you will defeat this habit and rather than spend money smoking you will spend it on your children, family, yourself, or on something else that means much more to you.

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Remember the movie MEET THE FOCKERS where Greg's parents have a display of all of Greg's trophies. And Jack comments "I did not know they made awards for 9th-place." (Click here for YouTube clip)

It might be alright to recognize a kid for his effort no matter how small. But at some time in life one realizes that life does not reward efforts. Live rewards results. Life rewards number one and everybody else doesn't matter. That is why in the movies the hero is always a Harvard graduate who graduated top in his class.

When talking about smoking the best is quitting all together. Second best is 1)cutting back, and 2)hardly ever smoke. If you used to smoke two packs-day and now you have cut back to just one cigarette a day that's great but it's only second best and you are still a smoker. And I especially want to talk to the hardly ever smoke crowd. This is the group of people who claims that because the smoke about once a month or less they really and truly don't smoke. If you belong to this group you are freaking-crazy. You are completely brain-washed. Zero is not almost zero. Zero is zero. And even if you smoke one every six months you are still a smoker. And furthermore you are still at a much greater risk of disease that the general population.

Nobody wants second best! One always strives to be the freaking best. And effort is not enough. Results are what counts.

Be the best and quit for good. Quit and never, ever touch a cigarette again.

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Zyban was originally marketed as a antidepressant under the brand name Wellbutrin. The generic name of this drug is bupropion.

Soon after patients on this drug began reporting that they stopped smoking. And studies showed that Zyban reduced the severity of nicotine cravings and withdrawal symptoms and thus improved the chances of quitting smoking up to 20%. Other desirable side-effects where increased libido and weight loss. The most commonly observed adverse events consistently associated with the use of Zyban are dry mouth and insomnia.

Zyban eventually gained FDA approval as the first nicotine-free prescription medicine for smoking cessation. It was also the first smoking cessation treatment available in tablet form (before Chantix) and became available by prescription in July 1997.

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Benzene: Is a colorless cyclic hydrocarbon obtained from coal and petroleum, often used as a solvent in fuel and in chemical manufacture. Benzene is contained in cigarette smoke. And benzene is a known carcinogen associated with leukemia.

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Every cigarette takes 7 minutes off your life.

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Cigarette smokers are 2-4 times more likely to develop coronary heart disease than smokers.

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• Posted by tieney faircloth to Quit Smoking Rx at April 6, 2009 5:24 PM

Whitney as left us too soon. As great as she was she had the potential to give the world so much more.

Amid the rash of sub-par US national anthem music performances we have heard lately there is one performance that stands out like a beacon in the sky. Whitney Houston 1991 rendition of the Star Spangled Banner during the opening ceremonies of Super Bowl XXV. I forget who played that year but I cannot forget how I felt after listening to Whitney sing. (Whitney Houston Star Spangled Banner Performance). That was the magic of Whitney Houston. Her gift could turn an ordinary tune into a masterpiece.

Whitney Houston burst out of nowhere in 1985 to dominate the music industry. The richness, beauty and strength of her voice had no equal. But just as impressive was her fall from the top. Whitney lost it all. Her voice, her status, her family life and now her own life.

The are many lessons to be learned – Do not wait to live, to love and be loved for no one is promised tomorrow. Lead the life that you were meant to live starting right now. And never be shackled with addiction.

Like a phoenix rising from the ashes we waited and hoped for her comeback to music from the destructive spiral that had engulfed her life. We waited and waited and it never came. Now we weep and hope that she will find in rest what had escaped her in life. Peace.

Rest in peace Whitney Houston, your fans will always love you.

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Smoking is known as the most preventable cause of death in the U.S. Here are a few facts about smoking which all parents must know. The above-mentioned fact means that several people who die because of smoking related diseases could probably live a longer life if they never smoked.

"Secondhand smoke" contains 60 various carcinogenic substances. But we are not going to talk about any of them in this post. We are going to focus on a compound called carboxyhemoglobin. Carboxyhemoglobin (COHb) is a chemical compound formed from carbon monoxide (CO) and hemoglobin (the oxygen delivery molecule in the blood) that forms in red blood cells when carbon monoxide is inhaled or produced in normal metabolism. Large quantities of COHb negatively affects the delivery of oxygen to the body.

Studies have reported that in poor ventilation conditions tobacco smoke exposure to a room for only one hour, would cause any child in the room to raise carboxyhemoglobin level in their blood from average 1.6% to 2.6%. This roughly equivalent to absorbing all of the tar content in a cigarette. It is as if your children were smoking too. Even for a short time breathing "secondhand smoke" will adversely effect a child's cardiovascular system, thereby increasing their risk of heart disease in the future.

Children who live with smokers experience secondhand smoke every day, even when the smoker takes their habit outside. Smoking outside the residence will slow up the overall exposure for the children it doesn't eliminate it entirely. Secondhand smoke remains on the carpet, curtain, clothing, food, furniture and other items, and keeps for weeks or even months, even if the window in the room is open or if there is an indoor air filter.

Ventilation systems often pull air externally or from different areas. This means that secondhand smoke can reaches the lungs of children and other adults while they are unaware that they are breathing contaminated air. Secondhand smoke is a fact and children are exposed to in four different places: public places, at home and in the car. Secondhand smoke is extremely serious business and a substantial health risk for everybody exposed.

Smoking is known to damage crucial organs in the body: the brain, heart and lungs. It is best if you did not smoke at all but especially don't smoke near children in order to prevent them from being harmed. Quit smoking for your own good as well as for preventing harm to your children.

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It should be obvious to any smoker that today is the day you quit. With the aim of putting an end to smoking one must put in a whole-hearted effort into the task. However, just maintaining your desire to quit can be a significant chore.
It can be difficult to stop smoking, and many people make multiple attempts as what works for some may not work with others.

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Many of us have the habit of surfing the web each day just to read news, articles, and stories. Some are even subscribing to blog sites to receive daily updates and information. Because of its growing popularity, many health groups and associations are making use of blogs to disseminate information to the general public on how to live a healthy lifestyle.

Quitting smoking is not easy but it’s not impossible. With the right information and motivation from others, every smoker can succeed to bust off this destructive habit. Read on to know the top 10 smoking blogs that you can get useful information from:

1. iquit-smoking (iquit-smoking.com/quit-smoking-blog)
This is a collection of posts written by Matt who has successfully quit smoking and now wants to help you quit. Matt will inspire many others who want to finally stop smoking but can’t.

2. Quit Smoking for Good (smokersblog.org)
We all know that smoking is bad for our health but despite the fact that it is, many of us can’t quit. This blog contains loads of articles about cigarette smoking and how it can be stopped. You’ll find informative posts and inspiring stories. If there are people who can give you the best advice on quitting smoking, they would be those who experienced the same.

3. Smoking Cessation (quitsmoking.about.com)
About.com is a very popular website that presents reliable articles on different niches. The Smoking Cessation presents comprehensive information about smoking. Other than the personal stories, you will see blogs that are posted by general practitioners, counselors, and experts in the field. If you want to know the medical and alternative ways of quitting smoking, you may want to take a look at this blog site.

4. Ciggy Free (ciggyfree.com)
When you’re ready to stop, this blog is all about helping you quit the old bad habit. It’s like Daily Mail that focuses on current news about cigarette smoking. Here, you’ll find a collection of highly informative articles featuring new studies and research.

5. Quit Cigs 4 Free (quitcigs4free.com)
This blog gives you access to free and unlimited resources and tips on quitting smoking. Smokers have different ways on kicking the bad habit. Some are able to stop smoking by simply throwing their cigarettes while others would still need to undergo NRT and all other expensive treatments.

6. Quit Smoking Place (QuitSmokingPlace.com)
Another great place to go for quit smoking blogs is the Quit Smoking Place, where you can read news and information on the consequences of smoking and the benefits you can get from quitting smoking.

7. Stop Smoking Now for Life (stop-smoking-now-for-life.com)
When you stop smoking, you want it to be for good. This blog site provides regular posts to encourage smokers to quit and help people who wanted to give up smoking for life. Readers are free to submit their comments too.

8. Quitsmoking-blog.com (quitsmoking-blog.com)
This website has a lot of updated blogs and articles. You can also request for a regular subscription through your email address. Just like some of the blogs mentioned here, it presents a combination of stories and news on quitting smoking.

9. Quit Guide (quitguide.com)
This blog gives a bunch of information on varying methods of quitting smoking. It has different blog categories including teens, adults, pregnancy smoking, and so on. To subscribe blogs, there’s no need to provide your email address. You just have to copy and paste the URL to your RSS feeder.

10. Quit Smoking Timeline (quitting-smoking-timeline.com)
Quitting smoking is more than a personal choice. For you to succeed, you really need help from other people – friends, family, and all others who have experienced the same situation. This blog site doesn’t only give you helpful information on quitting smoking. It also guides you on the step by step process involved in quitting.

If you or someone you know is going through the same difficulty of quitting smoking, you can always find a reason to pursue just by reading blogs. Information is the key towards a healthier and happier life.

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When you smoke, the first organ-system that is most severely affected is your respiratory system and particularly your lungs. Every time you smoke, your lungs become black with tar. Studies show that after 3 years of continuous smoking, you increase your risk of lung cancer by 99.9%!
The good news is that…Well, it isn’t too late to quit smoking, and if you do your lungs will be restored. Read on to know the magnificent changes that occur in your lungs after quitting smoking.

1. Your lung condition improves.
The positive effects of quitting smoking take place hours after you stop. Your blood pressure goes back to normal and the flow of oxygen is regulated. Three months after you quit smoking, the condition of your lungs will improve. The risk of infections will also decrease.

2. Your lungs will clear out excess mucus.
Within 24 hours, your lungs will be 100% free from carbon monoxide. Did you know that carbon monoxide is the very same gas that is pumped out by your car exhaust? That’s true! And the moment it is eliminated from the lungs, excess mucus or any smoking debris will be washed out. You will not anymore experience the smoking cough.

3. New cells will develop in the linings of the lungs.
Cigarette smoke contains thousands of harmful chemicals that destroy healthy cells. In three months of quitting smoking, new cells will form, restoring your lungs back to its original condition.

4. Cilia are restored.
Cilia are the tiny protrusions in your lungs that screen out all toxins and other substances that may damage your lungs. Cilia are the first that get destroyed when you smoke. But after 72 hours, these hair-like filters will start repairing and growing themselves and will continue to protect your lungs.

5. Your lung function improves.
After 9 months of quitting smoking, your lung function improves by 5%. According to the John Hopkins University, the lung function of people suffering from pulmonary disease improves when they stop smoking. The symptoms such as coughing and shortness of breath will be reduced if not alleviated.

6. The risk of oral and tuberculosis cancer is reduced.
After five years of quitting smoking, smokers become less prone to some types of cancer concerning the lungs and other respiratory diseases. The risk of tuberculosis and oral cancer is also reduced. Such risk continues to decline if smokers will continue quitting.

7. The risk of lung cancer is reduced by 50%.
Within ten years of not smoking, the risk of lung cancer is cut by 50%. If you are a mild smoker, your lungs would have less damage so even within just a few months or years after you quit smoking, the risk of developing lung cancer will be greatly reduced.

8. It rejuvenates.
Did you know that the lungs are the only organs in the body that regenerate? Continuous smoking cessation coupled with proper diet and exercise will restore your lungs to normal.

9. Damaged tissues is be repaired.
Years after quitting smoking, the damaged tissues caused by the chemicals coming from the cigarette smoke will be repaired. As a result, the capacity of your lungs will get better.

10. You and your lung chances of staying healthy and living longer increase.
In fifteen years, your risk of lung cancer drops to one-half that of continuing smokers. And your risk of coronary artery disease is now similar to that of people who have never smoked.

BONUS:
11. Better than Viagra.
Your aerobic and exercise capacity improves and you'll feel 'frisky' like a young kid again. Lungs play a vital role in your body. They deserve your care and love too. It’s not yet too late.

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During the first few days after quitting your body will go through changes as it adjusts to the absence of nicotine and other toxins.  Reactions vary, being very mild for some people and more distracting for others.  Following are common symptoms and how to deal with them:

Fatigue—Nicotine is a stimulant so people often feel drowsy when it is first taken away.  Allow yourself to get extra sleep, even take naps if possible, as your body adjusts.  Taking walks or other light aerobic activities also keep your energy level up.

Headaches and Dizziness—Dizziness comes with increased levels of oxygen in the brain.  Oxygen is good, but it takes a period of time for you to adjust.  Headaches and dizziness is also associated with a greater sensitivity to caffeine when you’ve quit smoking.  Try to cut back on caffeine and experiment with relaxing herbal teas.

Insomnia—sometimes people have difficulty sleeping—this will pass.

Irritability, Nervousness, Difficulty Concentrating—These normal reactions will pass as your body adjusts to the absence of nicotine.  If you let families and friends know, they will be forgiving if you let your irritability overflow.

Coughing—As your lungs start to clear out you may find that you are coughing more than usual.

Sore throat—In the absence of the numbing effect of smoke, you may become more aware of how your throat has been irritated.

Constipation—Drink plenty of fluids, eat foods with fiber (try a Bran cereal), eat fresh fruits and vegetables, and make sure you have daily physical activity.

Positive Physical Changes After You Quit

This is the exciting part.  After you quit your body gets much healthier in a matter of weeks!

Here is a play-by-play account of what happens:

20 to 30 minutes after your last cigarette: blood pressure and heart rate drop to normal levels.

8 hours after:  carbon monoxide levels in the blood go down and oxygen levels go up.

24 hours after:  your risk of heart attack and stroke decreases significantly.

48 hours after:  senses of taste and smell start improving.

72 hours after:  breathing becomes easier.

2 weeks to 9 months:  coughing decreases, sinus congestion decreases, physical activities such as walking are easier, lungs are working better.

1 year:  risk of heart disease drops significantly.

5 years:  risk of mouth, throat and esophageal cancer decreases significantly.

5 to 15 years:   stroke risk decreases significantly.

10 years: risk of lung cancer reduces significantly.

15 years: risk of heart disease and risk of death is almost at the same level as for those who haven’t smoked.

It’s amazing how the body can restore itself.  These are the significant health rewards for relieving your body of nicotine exposure.

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Choose a day that will allow you to cope with withdrawal symptoms such as irritability and restlessness.  Plan for a stress-free day, yet have activities lined up that will keep you distracted—perhaps an outing with family or friends; a massage; or a spa day.  A long weekend or a short vacation time might be perfect timing, or if your workplace is smoke-free, being busy at work may be best for you.

Preparations for the Quit Date

Now you have a quit date you have work to do!

• If you haven’t already, look at your smoking patterns, identify triggering situations and how you will cope without smoking.  If you have tried to quit before, pay special attention to the challenges you encountered.

• Talk to friends and family and enlist their support.  You might also seek out a smoking cessation helpline for back-up during your early days of quitting.

• Have special treats on hand such as your favorite fruits, sunflower seeds, vegetables and other low-calorie snacks; plan to drink lots of water and other beverages with no caffeine and low sugar content.

• Have a supply of  sugarless gum.

• If you smoke more than a pack a day, you may want to consider aids such as nicotine gum or patches.  I would suggest talking with your doctor about how to best use these aids and gradually wean yourself off them.

Your Last Smoke

Once your quit day is chosen, the previous day will include your “last smoke”.  Take the opportunity to consciously smoke the last one and throw away all lighters, cigarettes, and ashtrays. Remember to empty handbags and pockets.  If you are so inclined, you can make the process into a ritual, reaffirming to yourself what you are moving away from and what you are bringing into your life.  Promise yourself that you will do your best to never smoke again…not even a puff.

General Tips for Your First Weeks of Quitting

• Remember you are detoxifying.  Notice positive changes as the nicotine leaves your body.  Notice how smoking urges do not last long and get shorter over time.
• Drink plenty of fluids (avoiding sugar, caffeine and alcohol).
• Get lots of rest.
• Take walks
• Enjoy showers and baths.
• Avoid places where you will be exposed to smoke.
• Reward yourself regularly—go to a movie, go shopping, do things you enjoy.
• Congratulate yourself repeatedly.

photo credit: zdaz14

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Even in tiny amounts the presence of secondhand smoke nullifies all efforts of creating a healthy environment for the mother and  her baby. A healthy environment is necessary for a healthy pregnancy. Proper diet and exercise are not enough to make sure that the mother and her child are safeguarded from possible risks and complications brought about by pregnancy.

Don't Be Average
A typical house environment is already prone to harmful chemicals coming from the house itself, from the furniture, air freshener, appliances, and so on. If secondhand smoke is present in your environment then you’re feeding your child more toxic wastes and chemicals. If you expose yourself to cigarette smoke coming from other people, both you and your baby are suffering the consequences. This is the reason why pregnant women are highly discouraged to smoke and encouraged to stay away from people who smoke. If your partner or any member of your family smokes at home, you should tell them about your condition and how it can affect your child. As much as possible, you must stay away from these people.

CDC advise on Secondhand Smoke During Pregnancy
According to the Center for Disease Control, women who are regularly exposed to secondhand smoke are more likely to deliver babies with low birth weight. The risk is 20% higher than the risk to women who don’t smoke or don’t get exposed to passive smoking. Moms who are exposed to passive smoking run the risk of developing respiratory infections such as bronchitis which is dangerous in pregnancy since it can lead to pneumonia and death. Another risk associated to secondhand smoke is the poor development of the child’s immunity to fight diseases. Babies born by mothers who have been exposed to secondhand smoke have an increased chance of dying from SIDS or sudden infant death syndrome.

Effects of Secondhand Smoke on Mother and Child
These lethal effects of smoking to the unborn can be attributed to the toxin consumption of the baby. It is said that when a pregnant woman smokes, her baby smokes also. This is not a cliché or a catchy marketing phrase. This is absolutely true. Basically, everything the mother takes goes through the umbilical cord and into the placental region where the baby’s being developed. And even if the mother doesn’t smoke but she’s exposed to passive smoking, she takes in harmful chemicals that are passed along to the fetus.

The possible health side effects on babies exposed to passive smoking are actually higher than with babies whose mothers actively smoked during pregnant. So it is important that you make every effort to keep yourself in a healthy and smoke-free environment. Your pregnancy may call for so many dos and don’ts and ask that you religiously observe them. While it can be challenging to do so, there’s a great reward that is waiting in the end – a normal, risk-free delivery, of YOUR healthy baby!
photo credit: olga.palma

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Zyban was the first non-nicotine drug to be used to help people stop smoking. This drug contains chemical derivatives of a stimulant drug known as amphetamine and is also used as a drug to treat depression.

It is said that cigarette smoking causes one out of six deaths by making smokers susceptible to many illnesses. This is why a lot of research and development goes into making medicines that can help smokers stop smoking and stop their addiction. Smoking kills more people than:

1. HIV (AIDS),
2. drug abuse,
3. car accidents, and
4. homicides.

There are currently three types of medicines used to stop smoking:

1. nicotine replacements meds,
2. Zyban, and
3. Chantix.

Since nicotine replacements still contain nicotine, those who want to avoid nicotine are left with only two choices: Zyban and Chantix.

Zyban (ZYBAN)
Zyban binds to certain receptors in the brain known as dopamine receptors and inhibits the reuptake of a stimulating brain chemicals known as norepinephrine. It also blocks nicotinic acetylcholine receptors, the receptors to which the nicotine from cigarette smoke binds.

However, some dangerous side effects of Zyban are

1. seizures,
2. confusion,
3. chest pains,
4. muscle and joint pains and
5. irregular heartbeats.

With these unpleasant side effects in mind, scientists began to look to discover other drug to stop smoking that did not have these side effects. Chantix is an example of such a drug. Chantix works by binding to the nicotine receptors in the brain to relieve the craving and withdrawal symptoms one feels when one stops smoking.

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Tobacco cessation at any point during pregnancy can yield important health benefits for the mother and the baby. -U.S. Preventive Services Task Force (USPSTF)

Whenever a person smokes, only 15% of the harmful chemicals are inhaled by that person. 85% of it goes to the air, affecting other people. According to studies, a person who spends two hours in a room where someone is smoking inhales smoke which is equivalent to 4 sticks of cigarettes! That’s about one cigarette every half an hour.

If you’re pregnant, you don’t want to expose yourself to secondhand smoke as it will directly affect your baby. Whatever health risk you might get out of smoking, your child also gets the same. The only difference is that your baby doesn’t have enough immunity to fight the harmful chemicals that can cause varying diseases including brain defects, cancer, respiratory infections, and heart problems.
photo credit: CarbonNYC

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Socrates Brasileiro Sampaio de Souza Vieira de Oliveira (1954 – 2011)

Just learned of a great childhood hero who died relatively young at age 57. Socrates a charismatic and talented brazilian futbol player was also known to be an unwavering cigarette user.
I am a little late in learning the news of his passing but no less moved by his loss and what he represented in the futbol world.

Adeus, doutor!

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What Steve Jobs is saying here? He wants you to know that all it takes sometimes is the willingness to ask for help. But a lot of us don't want to risk even that much. What is the worst that could happen? That the help you asked is refused and you continue to smoke. So what?
Keep asking until you get the help you need. Don't be afraid and take the chance.

Don't forget to subscribe by email here and never miss an update.
Email me any time with comments, questions, or suggestions at: drantoniohowell [at] drantoniohowell.com

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There are plenty of evidences that smoking can be bad for your health. Majority of the chemicals found in cigarette smoke are toxic. Each year, there are over 3,000 people who die from passive smoking alone. On a larger scale, millions of people all over the world die because of cigarette smoking. If you are pregnant or you’re planning to have a child, you should take this opportunity to quit smoking. This way, you can prevent any possible effects of smoking to your child.

How smoking affects the life of the unborn has been the focus of many studies for the past years. While there’s still a lack of scientific evidences that measure how much exactly is the effect of smoking to the baby, experts have pointed out several scenarios that may happen to the unborn children whenever their mothers smoke. These include physical defects, underdeveloped organs, and a wide variety of illnesses that can sometimes result to infant death.

Low Birth Weight
According to research, one pack of cigarettes can reduce your baby’s weight by half a pound. Just imagine how much will your child weigh if you smoke an average of 20 cigarettes (one pack) a day all through your pregnancy. The reason behind the low birth weight is the insufficiency of oxygen, nutrients, and minerals that the unborn needs to survive. Every time you smoke, a large amount of nicotine is carried by your blood to all parts of your body including the umbilical cord, the tube that is connected to your child. The umbilical cord serves as the life support of the baby. It’s like a dextrose that carries the oxygen and nutrients to the child. But when you smoke, nicotine creates a spasm on your umbilical cord, making it hard for the blood to enter the placenta. This condition leads to the deprivation of the food and oxygen to the unborn. Babies who are born with weight less than 5.5lbs are considered at low birth weight.

Increased Chance of Cancer and Tumors
In an in-depth report made by Daily Mail, it was revealed that active smoking can increase the possibility of the unborn having cancer or tumors later in life. The harmful chemicals found in tobacco can adversely affect cell growth and may cause cell mutations and cell abnormalities. As this happens, the unborn becomes susceptible to any kind of cancer. In a study made by a group of researchers from the University of Pittsburgh, it was found that the cell mutation that is caused by cigarette smoke creates oncogene – a gene that actually transforms healthy cells to cancerous tumors. According to the research head Dr Stephen Grant, the occurrence of oncogene doesn’t just happen with active smoking but with passive smoking as well.

Vascular Disease
Infants that are born by women who smoke have an increased chance of developing heart diseases and related complications. Nicotine, tar, carbon monoxide, and all other chemicals that are brought by the cigarette smoke can cause huge damage on the placenta, causing it to separate from the uterus lining. This condition will make it much harder for the mother to transport oxygen and food to her baby. Many studies found that smoking makes the placenta look much older than it normally would. This causes great distress to the unborn which leads to heart problems. The mother may also experience vaginal bleeding, premature birth, and some other complications.

It’s not too late to Quit!
If you’re a smoker and you’re carrying a child inside your womb at this very moment, it’s never too late to quit. Hope this information will make you understand how important it is to get the monkey off your back. When you feel like you can’t quit smoking, just think of your child. For sure, he or she doesn’t want to smoke this early. Every unborn child is gifted with the instinct of survival. They may not have the intelligence yet to determine which is wrong from right. But they definitely know one thing – they want to live. Just like you.

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• Smoking during Pregnancy: Some Facts You Should Know
• 10 Reasons Why Pregnant Women Should Quit Smoking
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Embarrasment is not enough of a word to describe what I feel about this ad. But don't let our mistake be yours too. Well all make mistakes and have to live with the consequences of them. But you do not need to shoulder our mistake anymore. I am here to un-officially let you know that the views shared on this 1950s advertisement is no longer shared by the medical establishment. We the medical establishment would like you to avoid, no run like hell away from cigarettes. Thank you.

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• Allen Carr's The Easy Way To Stop Smoking
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• How to Choose Your Quit Date
• 19 Reasons Why Chantix is More Effective Than Zyban for Smoking Cessation
• Top 12 Nicoderm CQ Patch Side Effects Include?

So, what are the advantages of Chantix over Zyban? Here are 19 reasons that explain why Chantix is better than Zyban:

1. Chantix is Highly Selective for Nicotine Receptors

Chantix is a medication that is known to partially block a certain subtype of the nicotine acetylcholine receptor known by the name alpha4beta2 nicotinic acetylcholine receptor. The nicotinic acetylcholine receptor is a type of protein receptor in the brain that induces feelings of pleasure. Chantix generates chemicals that create a sensation of pleasure like the sensation created by smoking. However, it selectively binds to the receptor and is able to block off the receptor. As a result, when you take Chantix while smoking, you do not experience these pleasurable sensations, which make you abhor smoking even more.

2. Chantix Reduces Craving

In a study by West et al, Chantix was proven more effective than Zyban in reducing craving for smoke. The fact that Chantix reduced craving in smokers who did not completely abstain from smoking suggests that it may be of benefit in helping smokers reduce consumption before quitting. 1

3. Chantix Reduces Nicotine Withdrawal Symptoms

Because of a high attraction to the nicotinic acetylcholine receptor, Chantix mimics the effect of nicotine and diminishes craving and withdrawal symptoms. While doing this, it also blocks nicotine from binding and reduces the rewarding the effect of cigarettes.

It is said that the most difficult time for a smoker who is trying to quit is the first few weeks after quitting. He or she has to deal with nicotine withdrawal symptoms such as headache, anxiety, nausea and a craving for more tobacco. By blocking nicotine from binding to its receptors, Chantix reduces and eliminates the need for a certain level of nicotine at all times.

4. Chantix is Effective

Five studies have measured the efficacy of Chantix versus Zyban or placebo. In these studies about 20% of patients who take Chantix did not smoke for one year after treatment compared with about 10% of patients who took placebo and 14.6 % of patients who took Zyban. These studies reflect that Chantix was effective in stopping smokers from smoking compared to Zyban. 2, 3, 4, 5, 6

5. Chantix is Safe

According to an article by Love et al, which appeared on the 2007 issue of the American Family Physician, there were studies that involved more that 4,500 patients noting the safety of Chantix. In these studies, there were no reports of misuse or abuse and there were not serious safety issues. There were no reported drug interactions, although the dose has to be reduced in those with impaired kidney function. 7

6. Chantix is Tolerable

It is said that Chantix has no serious side effects. The most common side effect encountered with studies is nausea. Nausea occurs in about 30% of patients who are already taking the maintenance dose. Other side effects were found to appear in only slightly more than 10% of patients and include headache, difficulty in sleeping, abnormal dreams, and flatulence. Chantix is deemed tolerable as compared to placebo because discontinuation due to side effects was seen in only 12% of the patient population.

7. Chantix Leads to Easy Dosage Titration

Chantix is easy to take, at a dosage of twice daily after a meal. Initially, doctors can start with 0.5 mg once daily for one week before the quit date, which may later on be increased to 0.5 mg twice daily after 3 days. During the second week, the dose may then be increased to 1 mg twice daily for 12 weeks. This is an easier and more effective regimen compared to Zyban dosage titration. This makes compliance easier for the patient.

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8. Chantix Helps People Quit Alcohol

Chantix also helps heavy drinks quit alcohol along with smoking! Sounds too good to be true, isn’t it? The basic mechanism of Chantix is that it binds to the receptors of the brain’s pleasure centers. Alcohol also acts on the same pleasure zones of the brain. It was hypothesized that Chantix could do the same with alcohol and would make people stop taking too much alcohol. A study done in rats revealed that Chantix affected the way rats drank alcohol. Chantix led to less alcohol consumption in rats and even when they stopped taking Chantix, the rats resumed drinking but did not resort to binges.

Chantix works by latching onto the same receptors in the brain that nicotine binds to when inhaled in cigarette smoke, an action that leads to the release of dopamine in the brain's pleasure centers.

9. Chantix Benefits Patients with COPD

We know that smoking is a risk factor for developing chronic obstructive pulmonary disease or COPD. This is a condition wherein there is a long-lasting obstruction of the airways that occurs with other lung diseases such as chronic bronchitis and emphysema.

One clinical trial evaluated the efficacy of Chantix in patients with mild to moderate COPD. This trial found out that Chantix was effective in making COPD patients quit smoking. There were no adverse events noted. This trial hypothesized that Chantix can help those COPD stop smoking and thus leads to a better quality of life in these patients, since smoking is the number one risk factor in developing COPD and its resultant complications. 8

10. Chantix Benefits Patients with Heart Disease

Smoking is also one risk factor for heart disease and increases the death rates related to this condition. In one European study by Wilson et al, Chantix was shown to be effective in making patients with heart disease cease smoking. If this always the case, then there would be greater risk reductions in deaths from heart disease. The risk for heart disease events while using Chantix is small as compared to its benefits. One should always consult the doctor when one has heart problems and other medical conditions. 9

11. Chantix Improves Blood Vessel Problems

It is said that smoking contributes to blood vessel problems because it leads to arterial stiffness, thus causing high blood pressure. High blood pressure can lead to stroke, heart attacks, and other dangerous consequences. One study found out that Chantix significantly decreased central blood pressure, and pressure in the blood vessels. This has led the researchers to think that Chantix can help improve arterial stiffness and decrease blood pressure. 10

12. Chantix Benefits Smokers with Schizophrenia

Smoking rates are higher in patients with schizophrenia, a form of mental disorder, and other psychiatric problems. This can create many health problems for them. It is said that Chantix can help in reducing cognitive problems in people with schizophrenia. One trial studies 120 people with schizophrenia who were given antipsychotic medications and Chantix. Their findings suggest that Chantix with antipsychotics are beneficial in reducing cognitive problems in patients with schizophrenia. 11

Another study combined cognitive behavioral therapy with Chantix in making people with schizophrenia stop smoking. Their findings revealed that the patients who exhibit less flat affects are more likely to succeed in abstaining from smoking. 12

13. Chantix is Safe to Use in HIV Infected Smokers

Do you know that Chantix can be used in HIV patients who smoke? It is said that a person who has a depressed immune system who smokes is more prone to other infections and other life-threatening medical conditions.

One clinical trial studied the effect of Chantix on HIV patients who smoke. The study found out that Chantix appears safe and effective in this group of people. These patients should have regular blood chemistry testing every now and then to ensure that there will be no changes in liver and kidney function. 13

14. Chantix Helps Treat Substance Abuse in Smokers

People who use illegal drugs are also heavy smokers. There was one study done by Plebani, et al that studied the effects of Chantix on concomitant cocaine use and smoking. This study found out that Chantix decreases cocaine use and reward along with smoking. Who knows, Chantix may be the next substance-abuse tool! 14

15. Chantix Has Some Benefit in Movement Disorders

It is not only in smoking cessation that Chantix shows promise. It also shows promise in movement disorders. One study evaluated the effect of Chantix on ataxia and imbalance. It studied Chantix use in two people with spinocerebellar ataxia, a disorder in movement. These two patients experienced marked improvement in their symptoms after taking Chantix. 15

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16. Chantix Improves Mood during Smoking Withdrawal

Smoking withdrawal often affects a person’s mood because of the low levels of nicotine to stimulate the nicotine receptors in the brain. A study by Patterson et al showed that Chantix reduced withdrawal symptoms, smoking urges and negative affect during smoking abstinence. There was also improvement in memory, facial expression, and attention to details. 16

17. Chantix Offers No risk of Convulsive Fits

The nice thing about Chantix is that there were very few to none reports of epileptic fits and seizures during use. On the other hand, Zyban has a huge potential to cause seizures so that intake with other medications that can predispose to seizures should not be given.

18. Chantix Can Be Used as Combination Therapy

Previously there was no study or guideline recommending the use of Zyban with other medicines or quit smoking aids. However, with the discovery of Chantix, there are now many trials advocating the use of Chantix with Zyban and other anti-smoking aids. These studies even progressed long term and efficacy was increased, with minimal side effects. 17, 18

19. Chantix is Cost Effective

It is said that a one-month supply of Chantix will only cost approximately $120 for the maintenance dose. This is less than the cost of Zyban (Wellbutrin) SR ($150). Patients who smoke one pack per day will spend an average of $130 per month on cigarettes.
One study utilizing Finnish smokers commented that Chantix resulted in cost savings of 15 million and 43 million Euros (€) compared with Zyban and smoking cessation without medications, respectively. Chantix was more effective and cost effective than its competitors. 19
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Email me any time with comments, questions, or suggestions at: drantoniohowell [at] drantoniohowell.com.

References:
1. West R, Baker CL, Cappelleri JC, Bushmakin AG. Effect of Chantix and Zyban SR on craving, nicotine withdrawal symptoms, and rewarding effects of smoking during a quit attempt. Psychopharmacology (Berl). 2008 Apr;197(3):371-7.
2. Oncken C, Gonzales D, Nides M, Rennard S, Watsky E, Billing CB, et al. Efficacy and safety of the novel selective nicotinic acetylcholine receptor partial agonist, Chantix, for smoking cessation. Arch Intern Med. 2006;166:1571–7.
3. Tonstad S, Tonnesen P, Hajek P, Williams KE, Billing CB, Reeves KR, for the Chantix Phase 3 Study Group. Effect of maintenance therapy with Chantix on smoking cessation: a randomized controlled trial. JAMA. 2006;296:64–71.
4. Gonzales D, Rennard SI, Nides M, Oncken C, Azoulay S, Billing CB, et al., for the Chantix Phase 3 Study Group. Chantix, an alpha4beta2 nicotinic acetylcholine receptor partial agonist, vs. sustained-release Zyban and placebo for smoking cessation: a randomized controlled trial. JAMA. 2006;296:47–55.
5. Jorenby DE, Hays JT, Rigotti NA, Azoulay SA, Watsky EJ, Williams KE, et al., for the Chantix Phase 3 Study Group. Efficacy of Chantix, an alpha4beta2 nicotinic acetylcholine receptor partial agonist, vs. placebo or sustained-release Zyban for smoking cessation: a randomized controlled trial [Published correction appears in JAMA 2006;296:1355]. JAMA. 2006;296:56–63.
6. Nides M, Oncken C, Gonzales D, Rennard S, Watsky EJ, Anziano R, et al. Smoking cessation with Chantix, a selective alpha4beta2 nicotinic receptor partial agonist: results from a 7-week, randomized, placebo- and Zyban-controlled trial with 1-year follow-up. Arch Intern Med. 2006;166:1561–8.
7. Love B, Merz T. Chantix (Chantix) for Smoking Cessation. Am Fam Physician. 2007 Jul 15;76(2):279-280.
8. Tashkin DP, Rennard S, Hays JT, Ma W, Lawrence D, Lee TC. Effects of Chantix on smoking cessation in patients with mild to moderate COPD: a randomized controlled trial. Chest. 2011 Mar; 139(3):591-9.
9. Wilson K, Hettle R, Marbaix S, Cerezo SD, Ines M, Santoni L, Annemans L, Prignot J, Lopez de Sa E. An economic evaluation based on a randomized placebo-controlled trial of Chantix in smokers with cardiovascular disease: results for Belgium, Spain, Portugal, and Italy. Eur J Cardiovasc Prev Rehabil. 2011 Aug 12.
10. Takami T, Saito Y. Effects of smoking cessation on central blood pressure and arterial stiffness. Vasc Health Risk Manag. 2011;7:633-8.
11. Shim JC, Jung DU, Jung SS, Seo YS, Cho DM, Lee JH, Lee SW, Kong BG, Kang JW, Oh MK, Kim SD, McMahon RP, Kelly DL. Adjunctive Chantix Treatment with Antipsychotic Medications for Cognitive Impairments in People with Schizophrenia: A Randomized Double-Blind Placebo-Controlled Trial. Neuropsychopharmacology. 2011 Nov 2.
12. Dutra SJ, Stoeckel LE, Carlini SV, Pizzagalli DA, Evins AE. Chantix as a smoking cessation aid in schizophrenia: effects on smoking behavior and reward sensitivity. Psychopharmacology (Berl). 2012 Jan;219(1):25-34.
13. Cui Q, Robinson L, Elston D, Smaill F, Cohen J, Quan C, McFarland N, Thabane L, McIvor A, Zeidler J, Smieja M. Safety and Tolerability of Chantix Tartrate (Champix(®)/Chantix(®)) for Smoking Cessation in HIV-Infected Subjects: A Pilot Open-Label Study. AIDS Patient Care STDS. 2012 Jan;26(1):12-9.
14. Plebani JG, Lynch KG, Yu Q, Pettinati HM, O'Brien CP, Kampman KM. Results of an initial clinical trial of Chantix for the treatment of cocaine dependence. Drug Alcohol Depend. 2011 Sep 16.
15. Zesiewicz TA, Sullivan KL. Treatment of ataxia and imbalance with Chantix (chantix): report of 2 patients with spinocerebellar ataxia (types 3 and 14). Clin Neuropharmacol. 2008 Nov-Dec;31(6):363-5.
16. Patterson F, Jepson C, Strasser AA, Loughead J, Perkins KA, Gur RC, Frey JM, Siegel S, Lerman C. Chantix improves mood and cognition during smoking abstinence. Biol Psychiatry. 2009 Jan 15;65(2):144-9.
17. Ebbert JO, Hays JT, Hurt RD. Combination pharmacotherapy for stopping smoking: What advantages does it offer? Drugs. 2010;70(6):643–650.
18. Ebbert JO, Croghan IT, Sood A, Schroeder DR, Hays JT, Hurt RD. Chantix and Zyban sustained-release combination therapy for smoking cessation. Nicotine Tob Res. 2009;11(3):234–239.
19. Lindena K, Jormanainenb V, Linnac M, Sintonend H, Wilsone K, et al. Cost effectiveness of Chantix versus Zyban and unaided cessation for smoking cessation in a cohort of Finnish adult smokers. Current Medical research and Opinion. March 2010 : 26, 3: 549-560

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Please read all the way down to see what I think of this article.

Stop Smoking – Choose an Alternative Method

Stop Smoking – Choose an Alternative Method

By Dr. Mark Clayson

Are you ready to stop cigarette smoking? Terrific. There can be tons of different ways to stop smoking cigarettes. One of them is to go it alone and end up cold turkey. Fundamentally you only decide to stop and not use any additional aids to assist you with the process. This particular method may work, but it usually ends up failing for many individuals.

The additional choice is to use stop smoking aids as an alternate choice to cigarettes. You will discover two common approaches of doing it. One, is to you use nicotine gum and the additional way is to use nicotine patches. These solutions do work, but there is a downside. You're still putting nicotine in your system.

But there is a much better choice!
One can find tablets and sprays you may use that replace the nicotine with a normal solution that fundamentally makes your human body think it's getting nicotine whenever it's really not. The reason these work well is because they assist you come off cigarettes without all of the withdrawals, and at the same time, you're not putting nicotine in your system. It's literally the perfect solution.

Now not all stop cigarette smoking solutions may do this sort of thing and not all of them are that great. You should ensure that you do your own research before deciding. But, as an alternative to other methods, they may work for you. Ask questions to ensure that you are sure of any harmful effects and always consult a physician for advice if in any doubt.

Visit Health, Disease, Prevention for more health related information

Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Dr._Mark_Clayson

http://EzineArticles.com/?Stop-Smoking—Choose-an-Alternative-Method&id=4150984

Are you serious Dr. Clayson?

This is without a doubt the worst quit smoking advice I have read in years.

It is because of bad advice like this that most people have such a hard time quitting smoking. This advice is ridiculous. The author starts out talking about quitting cold turkey and then advises against it because "it usually ends up failing". What a motivator this guy is.

Then he begins to talk about the nicotine gum or the patch. But then dismisses this because at the end these methods end up "putting nicotine in your system". So why even suggest it then?

Finally he arrives at the best way to quit using "solutions". Magic "solutions" that trick the body into thinking it is getting nicotine. What are these magic solutions I wonder?

Then he ends with the whopper: "Now not all stop cigarette smoking solutions may do this sort of thing and not all of them are that great. You should ensure that you do your own research before deciding."

Not only did he not tell you what this "solution" is. He now ask you to investigate it for yourself.

The sad thing is that the author of this drivel is supposed to be a doctor. (SMH in shame).

If you want real advise on how to quit smoking you need not look anywhere else. I provide you with excellent quit smoking information and do it in way that you can use and be ultimately successful in applying. So bookmark this page, subscribe to the RSS feed and keep coming for more.

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Smoking during pregnancy can affect the life of the unborn in many different ways. The complications may range from physical to mental or behavioral problems. The long term effects of smoking to the baby’s health may not be diagnosed until after a certain period of time. Sometimes, the symptoms occur during childhood and in early adulthood.

Babies who have been exposed to cigarette smoke are more prone to bullying, disobedience, cheating, and lying. This is according to WebMD, an American company that provides scientific information and services online.

The Long Term Effects of Maternal Smoking
Most of the long term consequences of smoking during pregnancy rest on the cognitive and behavioral disorders that the child may develop overtime. A very recent study indicated that mothers who smoke while pregnant have babies that are more likely to develop mental or psychological disorders. Two studies were made in Britain and in Brazil wherein over 5,000 moms were observed. Both of the results showed that the smoke coming from the cigarettes contain harmful substances that can significantly alter the brain structure of the child. These changes in the brain can be linked to mental disorders that may begin later in the life of the baby.

There are some other researches that linked maternal smoking to children’s behavioral disorders. The only problem with these studies is that there are more factors to be considered other than smoking. They include the environment of the child and their genetic composition. Nonetheless, there is no doubt that in one way or another, and no matter how insignificant it may seem, maternal smoking has something to do with the mental and behavioral health of a child.

Maternal Smoking and Attention Deficit Disorder (ADHD)
A study made by professional researchers from the University of Alabama revealed that smoking during pregnancy can trigger the occurrence of ADHD among children. To come up with the results, the researchers studied children who have hyperactivity disorders. It was found that majority of these children have moms who smoke. They also admitted that they even smoked while they were pregnant.

The culprit behind this alarming problem is the nicotine which is mainly found in tobaccos. This toxic substance alters the brain function by preventing the stem cells in the hippocampus (the area in the brain that is responsible for memory and learning) to reproduce. The interference of nicotine with the fetal brain development can damage the cognitive function of the child. Aside from ADHD, this condition can cause related illnesses such as mental retardation, learning difficulties or low IQ, and inclination to drug abuse.

Will you risk your child?
Pregnancy marks the start of your motherhood. This is perhaps the most critical stage in your life as a woman. What makes it even more complicated is the fact that there’s another life inside you who is struggling to survive and experience the world outside.

While quitting smoking can be an entirely difficult task, you don’t want your child to suffer from the consequences it brings all through their life. Maternal smoking will bring no positive effects to your baby. Therefore, it’s really a waste of time and money to smoke. Just like all parents in the world right now, you must be dreaming for your child’s bright future. Make this dream come true by securing the health of your baby all through the way.
photo credit: mdanys

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Despite the alarming side effects of smoking, millions of people can’t live a day without it. Tobacco is sold everywhere and you need no prescription for it. Same with alcohol, tobacco is perhaps the most abused drugs in the world. Even though numerous health groups, public and private organizations in the country are very active on pushing a smoke-free world, the number of smokers increases each day. Smoking bans have been implemented in public places but people just can’t give it up. Even if taking just one cigarette puts their life at risk.

What about Smoking?
Everybody knows that smoking is bad for our health. It’s on the cigarette packaging. But the problem with those warning signs is that they’re too short to make people understand the severe effects of smoking. As to what extent is cigarette harmful, only a few people dare to know. Aside from being addictive, cigarette or tobacco smoking is a societal expression. For teenagers, this is a symbol of being cool and ‘in’. For adults, smoking is one way to break free from a very stressful world. But the very substance that makes it addictive is a type of carcinogen or a substance that causes cancer. You know what it is – nicotine. But if you think that it only nicotine that is found on tobacco, you’re way too wrong! There are over 4,000 substances that make up one cigarette stick. And all of them are all dangerous to your health.

There’s no wonder why smoking has been one of the long-time causes of not just in America but in most parts of the world. In fact, one in every 5 people dies from smoking in the US. This accounts for 400,000 deaths. In UK, there are 100,000 people who also die from the same cause each year. And in China, there are about 3,000 who die each day.

Smoking during Pregnancy
If adult people die because of the harmful effects of smoking, what can a tiny fetus do to stay away from the hazards that tobacco brings? Smoking during pregnancy is one way of killing the baby. Some women may tell you that nothing happened to their kids when they smoked while pregnant. But majority of those who smoke while pregnant have experienced the stern effects of cigarette to their health and to their babies. Some women experience hard labor, premature deliveries, and miscarriages. Others had some complications. There are moms who were able to deliver normally but the defects are seen on their child. Usually, babies born by moms who smoke are smaller in size which shows how weak their body is to fight foreign substances that cause varying diseases. These children may also have smaller organs which lead to abnormalities.

Maternal Smoking and Premature Babies
You might wonder – what’s wrong with premature babies? Aren’t small babies easier to deliver? In some way it is. But being born ahead of expected schedule can mean that the baby has not fully developed yet. The nine months of pregnancy is the timeframe that is necessary for the baby to build up its organs to make it in the outside world without the support of the placenta and umbilical cord. Premature babies may or may not survive their conditions. Most babies die after several days from the day they were born. This is because they are prone to infections, and undeveloped heart and lungs makes it very difficult for them to breathe. Those babies who survive have higher risk of suffering from blindness, mental and developmental problems, and acquiring serious health problems later in life such as cardiovascular diseases, diabetes, and cancer.

Smoking is dangerous to your health, so goes the old saying. It is and always will. Quit now before anything happens to your baby. You don’t want to regret in the end when you can no longer do anything to save your child. photo credit: Fairrington

More Quit Smoking Post:

• Secondhand Smoke: How to Create a Healthy Environment for a Healthy Pregnancy?
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Drug interaction studies were performed with varenicline and digoxin, warfarin, transdermal nicotine, bupropion, cimetidine and metformin. No clinically meaningful pharmacokinetic drugdrug interactions have been identified.

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• Information YOU Should Know To Get The Best Results While Trying To Quit Smoking Using Chantix (Varenicline)

CARDIAC DISORDERS.
Infrequent:

1. Angina pectoris, (chest pain)
2. Arrhythmia, (irregular heartbeats)
3. Bradycardia, (slow heart beats)
4. Ventricular extrasystoles, (extra heartbeats)
5. Myocardial infarction, (heart attacks)
6. Palpitations, (sensation of your heartbeating )
7. Tachycardia. (rapid heartbeat).

Rare:

1. Atrial fibrillation,
2. Cardiac flutter,
3. Coronary artery disease,
4. Cor pulmonale,
5. Acute coronary syndrome.

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