citizensmemorial.com 9 Tobacco cessation group classes now available Stephens Pharmacy at Citizens Memorial Hospital offers help for people who want to quit smoking or other tobacco use. Bailey Sherry, PharmD, a clinical staff pharmacist, is certified to facilitate the American Lung Association’s Freedom From Smoking® program. The in-person program helps people quit all tobacco products, including e-cigarettes and vaping devices. The class meets for eight sessions over seven weeks. Meetings are weekly (except for the fourth week, when there are two sessions). The cost is $60 per participant. “At the fourth session, everyone quits together. Two days later, everyone meets again for additional support and accountability,” Sherry says. “Quitting in this supportive environment increases the likelihood of success.” and menthol are still allowed. And any flavor is allowed in inexpensive, disposable e-cigarettes. This makes them particularly popular with kids. Start the conversation If you suspect your child is vaping—or is tempted to start—bring up the topic when it’s a natural fit. For instance, when you’re together, do you see someone using an e-cigarette; spot a vape shop; or discover an ad for e-cigarettes in a store, a magazine or on the internet? Ask your child what they think about vaping to kick off the conversation. Listen to their answers and any questions they may have. Talk about the risks, and tell them you care about their health. Here are some facts to know and share: Using nicotine at a young age may make it harder to concentrate and learn or even control your mood and your impulses. The brain keeps developing until age 25. When you create a new memory or learn a new skill, your brain builds stronger connections (synapses) between brain cells. Young people’s brains build synapses faster than adult brains. Nicotine changes the way these synapses are formed. Using nicotine when you’re young may also increase the risk for future addiction to tobacco and other drugs. The vapor from e-cigarettes contains harmful chemicals like propylene glycol or ethylene glycol (also known as antifreeze), diethylene glycol, and aldehydes (such as formaldehyde), which is ranked as one of the most significant cardiovascular toxins also found in cigarette smoke. Secondhand vapor is harmful too. So even if your child doesn’t vape, it’s potentially risky for them to be around any friends who do. Finally, e-cigarettes and traditional cigarettes also hurt adults’ health. If you use these products, quitting can be hard, but it is possible. Setting a good example for your kids can make a world of difference in whether they use e-cigarettes or traditional cigarettes. Sources: American Academy of Physicians; Centers for Disease Control and Prevention Register online Visit cmhbolivar.info/QuitTobacco. For more information, email bailey.sherry@citizensmemorial.com or call Bailey Sherry at 417-328-4759.
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