Dangers of Lung Cancer
April 9, 2009 by Douglas Grahame
Filed under Smoking and Pregnant
Lung cancer is seen as being a resultant of an abnormality in the cell. The human body is known to automatically regulate cell growth in the basis of production when needed. In the event uncontrolled cell growth in the lung tissues, the resultant will be the development of lung cancer.
The symptoms that suggest lung cancer may vary from one location to another and the spread of the tumor. However, you can not identify the warnings of cancer early. The best step to take is to see a doctor if you experience a persistent cough, or if it develops into a chronic cough, and if there is blood stains in the sputum, pains in the chest and the difficulty in breathing and a weight loss whose cause can not be identified.
Cancer of lungs is categorized into two; that is Mesothelioma and primary lung cancer. Primary lung cancer is that which begins inside the lungs and Mesothelioma, which is also called secondary cancer is usually as a result of another cancer which affected a different part of the body and has now spread into the lungs. The known causes of lung cancer include smoking, viruses, asbestos, radon gas and other genetic risks.
Smoking: Smoking of cigarettes is the leading cause of lung cancer. In the developed world, cigarette smoking accounts for more than 80% of lung cancer related deaths. People who start smoking at a tender age are at a higher risk of developing lung cancer earlier in life due to the high exposure period. Non-smokers can also develop this type of cancer when they inhale smoke released by smokers found in their midst. All these modes are equally dangerous that is, the active pipe or cigar smoker and the passive smoker.
Radon Gas Fumes: Radon is a gas that occurs naturally and it passes to building foundations from the soil. If you are exposed to this gas, its concentration varies locally, consider the type of rocks and soil of a given area.
Asbestos: People who have a long contact with asbestos are likely to develop lung cancer especially if they couple it with the smoking of cigarettes. The two combinations are fatal as they increase the chances of developing cancer. Heavy exposure to asbestos lone can also result to lung cancer.
Viruses: In early times, viruses where thought to only cause lung cancer in animal. However, recent studies show that they can cause cancer I humans too. These viruses include JC virus, simian, papillomavirus and others.
Prevention serves as the most cost- effective means of combating lung cancer. Elimination of tobacco smoking should be the top goal in the eradication of lung cancer
Learn How To Kick the smoking Habit
April 8, 2009 by Douglas Grahame
Filed under Smoking and Pregnant
Smoking as a hobby has been in existence for generations, and different cultures have had it for various reasons. But probably the most common reason has been the macho outlook of Hollywood celebrities taking that puff in a movie and the hero worship has led to many people taking it up. Others got hooked through experimentation and curiosity, while others just love the cool puff and the feel of nicotine-laden smoke in their bodies. Whatever the reason, the truth of the matter is that smoking is hazardous in the long run and quitting is inevitable. But is there a way to quit forever that relaxing but dangerous puff?
Yes it is entirely possible. But even before we look at the ways in which you can stop smoking, it amazes me how people continually smoke even after the numerous warnings. The packets in which you buy the cigarettes is clearly labeled of the danger of smoking but you still do smoke. Health experts point out the numerous health risks posed by smoking like lung cancer but still that is not a deterrent. A funny species, man is! Every year, collectively people spend a lot of money on tobacco nicotine in proportions that can easily dwarf the health budgetary allocations of some governments in the world!
It is not all gloom though, as more and more people are coming out every year and expressing their desire to quit the habit. Sadly, most of them are ignorant of the proper ways of how to quit. Large multi-national companies know that quitting is not easy. They have thus taken advantage of this and capitalized on it to make even more money. They now have quit-smoking aids which in the real sense do not work! These aids are quite a number, from nicotine gums, patches, sprays to pills. In fact, studies have revealed that nicotine patches work a paltry 11% of all given trials.
You must have tremendously psychological willpower in order to successfully kick the habit. This is the first step. Will power goes a long way in determining whether you will successful when trying to stop smoking. The second step is to put away everything that has to do with cigarettes like lighters, ashtrays which only serve to awake your desire your smoke; so throw them out if you have to. You must always try to keeping the stop smoking process as natural as possible; keep yourself busy with constructive tasks so that you do not think about smoking.
Once you realize that stopping this bad habit actually lies with you as opposed to the fallacy that big pharmaceutical and multinational companies do, you will find that the fuss about the impossibility of quitting was all a storm in a teacup.
Ways to stop Smoking
April 8, 2009 by Douglas Grahame
Filed under Smoking and Pregnant
There are several occasions where by smokers in one time or another tried to call it quits. But just how does one stop smoking? Addiction to nicotine is new to our world toady with those who have attempted to stop smoking being pulled back in by the urge. To those who smoke, they may tend to do this publicly while others prefer in the comforts of themselves out of fear of how their friends or family would perceive them.
For one to comfortably be in a position to rate themselves as being out of the habit, they should be in a three month sober state away from cigarettes. The truth still stands that once you decide to quit smoking, then it should stand out as being a life time commitment. With lung cancer being a major development due to smoking, it has led to thousands of deaths over the past years and so take this in mind as you decide to quit forever.
The first thing is to find a reason for stopping smoking. You may not go far without a good reason. You may consider some of the reasons like health hazards it poses, the fear of addition, falling pregnant or any other viable reason. Once you know why you need to quit smoking, then it will be easy to fight the urge of lighting one more stick. You will then need to identify the reason why you smoke. Among the common ones if stress, anxiety, bored and influence from other smokers. You will have to decide the ways to avoid falling into such situations which may make you want to puff off. Find better things to do in such occasions so as to keep your mind occupied.
Next is to eliminate and destroy all tobacco products and accessories from places you operate from such as your work place and home or your car. The thought of cigarette will be reduced if you are not in contact with things that have reference to cigarettes. Check on your company too and try as much as possible to avoid situations where they are smoking.
Getting advice from a doctor is a good idea; s/he may advice you on the best diet that will not trigger urges to smoke and the different changes that your body may go through once you quit smoking. S/he may also get you to start on an exercise program which will keep you both busy and fit. Exercise also aids in reducing stress and anxiety which are some of the reasons why people smoke.
Little Known Ways To Quit Smoking
April 4, 2009 by Philip Davis
Filed under Smoking and Pregnant
The effects of smoking are cancer, strokes, olfactory and nervous system damage. There’s so much benefit you could get from quitting smoking. You’d feel happier and healthier and the health of the people around you wouldn’t be put at risk. Wondering how to quit smoking? Old habits die hard and like any other addiction or habit, kicking the nicotine habit isn’t easy. We try procrastination, we say we’re waiting for the Perfect Situation to quit smoking, we even say the spirit is willing but the flesh is weak – the plethora of excuses smokers use is wide, but we should all quit sooner or later – to lead a better life, and what better time than now?
Remember that there’s no hard and fast rules, and no wonder drug. There’s no miraculous treatment you can undergo to quit smoking. At the end of the day, it’s up to you. YOU need to be determined, YOU need to make the effort, and YOU need to maintain your goal at all times. Plan it out, and decide on short term as well as long term goals, to quit smoking – and remember the benefits of being nicotine-free. Mood swings and other kinds of withdrawal symptoms will be common – you’ll probably be cranky and irritated, you might even lose your will to quit smoking – so ask your friends and family members to give you support.
Avoid bars that have smoking sections, always choose to sit in the non-smoking area of restaurants, basically overall stay away from things that might urge you to smoke. Keep busy with working, doing chores around the house. Take lots of exercise. The main thing is to keep yourself distracted from the urge to smoke. Motivate yourself to count the money you’ll save by not buying cigarettes, and estimate the money you could save up. Hang around with non-smokers, they will give you moral support and help you quit smoking Their tips and suggestions will help you on your road to recovery.
Accept the reality that it’s a process, and you can’t achieve it just in a second. It needs sheer dedication and self-will, as well as self-control. Be patient, reward yourself for small efforts, and don’t think negative thoughts. Maintain a well-balanced diet, drink lots of water to replenish your system. Don’t be overstressed, as this is a major trigger for wanting to light up. Cravings are normal, try to deal with them, and take your mind off them by doing some other activity. Do something constructive.
Ask for help. If you find that you are not being able to quit smoking on your own, there are many people out there who will help you. People who have quit smoking and are now nicotine-free are usually very willing to help others on the way to recovery. Also, there are thousands of support groups out there – remember that group efforts and therapy will work wonders.
What Everybody Must Do To Quit Smoking
April 4, 2009 by Philip Davis
Filed under Smoking and Pregnant
Quitting smoking isn’t easy. You feel irritated, you tend to have withdrawal symptoms, and you constantly crave some nicotine – but remember that kicking the habit for good has numerous health benefits. We give you some tips on the prevention of smoking.
Remember that there’s a concrete reason behind you wanting to quit. Are you concerned about your own health and the health of your family members? Concentrate on that one reason and let it boost your strength, self-confidence, and self-respect. You’ll come closer to a healthier body. Control your tobacco cravings by doing something constructive. Read a book, or watch a documentary. Take some exercise – go jogging, go for a swim – anything works, really.
A good suggestion to curb nicotine cravings is using Chantix, which is a medicine that works just like nicotine. Its main ingredient is Varenicline, an agonist that activates pleasure cells in your brain, just like nicotine does to make you addicted. You’ll get the same experience you would have got after smoking, and it makes the prevention of smoking easier. Avoid places where smoking is allowed – like bars and restaurants. Always choose to sit in the non-smoking section. This will help you resist the urge to light up. If you miss having something in your mouth, try chewing a cinnamon stick, or even celery. Sometimes just fiddling with a toothpick can help. If you miss having something to hold in your fingers, try a pencil or a pen, just to give yourself that feeling. Anything, but not a cigarette. You need to concentrate on the prevention of smoking.
Stay away from drinking alcohol, coffee and tea, as these are drinks associated with smoking. Eat frequent meals in small or in moderate quantities, which will maintain your blood sugar level throughout the day, you’ll feel energetic and the craving to smoke will not bother you. Keep reminding yourself of the reason why you’re trying for the prevention of smoking in the first place. Prevention of smoking can be done by soaking in a luxurious bubble bath when the cravings get strong. Remember why you are quitting in the first place, and promise yourself that you will not give into temptation. If you even so much as touch a cigarette after promising yourself that you will quit, your thoughts on the prevention of smoking will have gone down the drain. Call a friend if the cravings get uncontrollable, and keep all cigarettes and ash-trays safely hidden away.
Another good way to achieve the prevention of smoking is by avoiding triggers to smoke – like being in the company of smokers, or sitting in the smoking section at restaurants.
Use aids for the prevention of smoking, like nicotine lozenges, nicotine inhalers, nicotine patches, and Stop Smoking pills. Finally, follow the 3 Ds’, when cravings hit: Do something else, Delay smoking / tobacco consumption, Deep Breathing. Every time is a good time for the prevention of smoking, so build up your grit and determination, and you won’t go wrong! Besides, adult smokers reduce their average lifespan by 13 to 14 years. What more reason do you need?
Some Of The Tips To Stop Smoking
April 4, 2009 by Philip Davis
Filed under Smoking and Pregnant
Lots of smokers today are choosing to stop smoking. It’s an unhealthy habit, and can lead to heart attacks and strokes. It’s harmful to the people around – passive smoking causes cancer too. So, as more and more people make the choice to stop smoking, you too might be wondering how you could. Maybe you’ve tried a few times, but resumed it in frustration. We give you some tips that will help you on the path to stopping smoking.
First and foremost, believe in yourself, and trust the fact that you can stop smoking. You can achieve everything with guts and determination, and this is no different. You need to will yourself to believe that you can kick the habit, and make your own plan for quitting. Consider the reasons why you want to stop smoking – to live longer, to feel better, to have fresher breath. Constantly refer to these reasons after making a list of them. Keep the benefits of stopping smoking in mind. Ask for the support of your friends and family, ask them to have faith in you. They should be aware of the fact that withdrawal symptoms will probably make you irritable, and that they should bear with you. It’s all for the best, isn’t it? Think of a target – decide upon a date by which you will stop smoking. Display it somewhere prominent after writing it down in big bold letters.
Fix up an exercise program. This will not only act as an effective stress-buster, but will make you healthier. You need to recover from all the nicotine damage, after all – and exercise will help your system. Start with small things – a short walk, a little sprint, and build it up as you go along. Swimming is great exercise. Consult your doctor – he will give you handy tips, as well as good guidance and support.
When it comes to the actual quitting, gradually cut down on the cigarettes. Buy only a pack at a time, a few if possible, try to give your cigarettes to someone else so that you don’t have them on you when you feel the urge to take a drag. With gradual effort, you will be able to stop smoking. However, many smokers have found that giving up abruptly works just as well. Figure out which method will work best for you. However, remember that whatever method you use, you will ultimately need to stop smoking.
A good suggestion is to have a buddy, and quit smoking together. You can give each other support, and this is vital in the journey to being a smoke-free person. Celebrate the milestones together. Has it been a week since you last smoked a cigarette? Then take some time off, go watch a movie together, or have lunch. Remember to treat yourself occasionally. Drinking water is important too, it’s good for you, and will flush out the toxins in your system. Avoid things that trigger your desire to smoke – such as entering a bar. With a little self-control, a dash of support from friends and family, and lots of determination, you really can be successful, and stop smoking!
Want To Live A Smoke Free Life?
April 4, 2009 by Philip Davis
Filed under Smoking and Pregnant
It’s no wonder that people are fast realizing the risks of smoking, and are kicking the nicotine habit to lead a healthier, smoke-free life. However, stopping smoking isn’t as easy as it sounds, and people generally follow two widely accepted methods. The first is stopping gradually – setting a date by which one will stop smoking, and working towards it by steadily cutting down, and the other is the cold-turkey method. The latter means that one will stop smoking abruptly in one day, and never again touch another cigarette. However, many people lack the self-control or the strength to try this. Here are some tips to help you on your way to achieving the cold-turkey method.
Firstly, and this is the most obvious rule: once you’ve made up your mind to stop smoking forever, abide by it. Resist the urge to take that puff. Remember, just one puff of the cigarette, and you’re back to square one, and all your effort is down the drain. You see, nicotine affects your brain, and grows millions of nicotine receptors in almost eleven different regions. Despite your mind’s nicotine induced dopamine/adrenaline intoxication being an alert high, your chemical dependency on the substance is very real. Don’t fool yourself by saying you’ll “take just one little puff” – the words don’t exist. Tell yourself that you want to stop smoking, and just do it!
You should be prepared to experience a strong sense of emotional loss. Your addiction to nicotine is, after all, intense and repetitive – over the years your body has been conditioned to depend on it. You will have to face emotional turmoil in phases like denial (feeling like you don’t need to stop smoking in the first place), anger (at yourself and everyone around you), bargaining (telling yourself you’ll take just one puff and stay absolutely nicotine-free the rest of the week), depression (feeling low and generally down-in-the-dumps), acceptance (of the fact that you must stop smoking), and complacency. Remember that this emotional journey is necessary, and a healthy part of recovery.
Regarding the health part, don’t skip meals, and drink lots of acidic fruit juice the first three days. We suggest cranberry juice, as it can help to speed up the 72 hours needed to remove the alkaloi nicotine from your body, and also help stabilize blood sugars. Exercise will slowly repair the damage done to your body through all those years of smoking. If possible, get a buddy with whom you can stop smoking, or getting the support from one who has already kicked the habit – for moral support.
Realize that perhaps your body is conditioned to crave nicotine at certain places, or events, or times. Maybe a trip to the bar will make you want to light up. Avoid such triggers, they will make you go backward in your efforts to stop smoking. Practice deep breathing, and reward yourself for little milestones. If it’s been a month since you smoked, go to a restaurant for a meal, and stay in the non-smoking section.

