What does tobacco-free mean to you?
For many students at the University of Idaho, the term means cleaner air. For others, it simply means being able to live a long and healthy life.
Samuel Berg
Tobacco cessation intern
According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, nearly 70 percent of smokers in 2011 reported wanting to quit and over 40 percent reported having tried to quit. Because of the way tobacco companies market to youth, most people who use tobacco begin doing so by age 26. There is no denying that many tobacco users do not want to be confined to their habit for the rest of their lives.
With an increased number of workplaces and educational institutions becoming smoke-free, tobacco industries have shifted gears, aggressively marketing smokeless forms of tobacco.
You may have noticed more students using electronic cigarettes, a product created by the tobacco industry and marketed as a safe alternative to smoking, which produces vapor rather than smoke. Research at John Hopkins University found that mice exposed to this vapor have lower immunities and a much more difficult time fending off bacterial and viral infections than those not exposed. Other research into the matter found toxic levels of formaldehyde in the liquid of e-cigarettes.
If you are trying to quit, it is recommended by many health care professionals to seek nicotine replacement therapy (NRT) such as gum, patches and lozenges, as these are clinically tested and FDA approved. If you’re not interested in trying NRT, there are other options and tips to try.
For those who use tobacco, these tips can help you quit and stay tobacco free.
First, avoid triggers. This means any situation where you typically use tobacco. If this is at the bar, consider having people over instead to watch a movie. If you enjoy smoking in your car, try taking a walk. The fresh air will be a nice change of pace and the exercise will give you a boost as well.
Second, delay your urge. If you feel like you are at the breaking point and you must use tobacco, give it another 10 minutes. The urge will pass.
Third, try a relaxation technique like deep breathing. This will give your brain a vacation from focusing on what you think you need in the moment. This will also provide stress relief and a sense of serenity.
It is important to understand that quitting tobacco isn’t easy. Many people who quit try several times before they are successful.
[box style=”rounded” border=”full”]For more information about free tobacco cessation classes, call (208) 799-3100 or go online to idahopublichealth.com.[/box]
Try not to get discouraged if you are having trouble kicking your habit. There are plenty of places in the area to get help. First, Gritman Medical Center has a certified tobacco treatment specialist for the region who will work with you to help you quit.
Also, Public Health-Idaho North Central District offers free tobacco cessation classes. Anyone looking to quit can find nearby classes by calling or visiting their website.
Another resource to check out is Project Filter at 1-800-QUITNOW. Idaho residents can get eight weeks of free NRT. Students can also stop by the Vandal Health Ed Resource Room for a nicotine-free “quit kit” for you or a friend, along with help accessing resources.
Samuel Berg is a peer educator and can be reached at [email protected]