H.I.M. Magazine

H. I. M.

‘REAL’ MEN

QUIT STORIES

MEN, TOBACCO

AND

RELATIONSHIPS

MESSAGE FROM

FATHER TO SON

HIGH TOBACCO

PREVALENCE

IN BLACK MALES

A Southern University Ag Center Health Initiative for Men Publication

Communities of Color Network

Affiliated program of the Louisiana Public Health Institute

& The Louisiana Campaign for Tobacco-Free Living

DOES SMOKING

CAUSE

IMPOTENCE?

CoC Network

is NOT

Waiting for the Smoke to Clear,

We are Clearing the Smoke.

WWW.1-800-QUIT-NOW

CoC Network Staff

Director & Editor-in-Chief

Linda Early Brown

[email protected]

Graphic Design & Layout

Shawntell Lewis-Harrell

[email protected]

Contributors

Shawntell Lewis-Harrell

[email protected]

Urina F. Holt

[email protected]

LaTonya Owens

[email protected]

Frankie Poland

[email protected]

Shirley Simon

[email protected]

DIRECTOR’S MESSAGE

Southern University

Agricultural

Research and Extension Center

Ashford O. Williams Hall

P.O. Box 10010

Baton Rouge, La. 70813

225-771-2242 (office)

225-771-2861 (fax)

Celebrating Healthier, Tobacco-Free Men

Greetings,

It is with great distinction that we, the Southern University Agricultural

Research and Extension Center Communities of Color (CoC) Network

family, dedicate this publication to the health and well-being of our dis-

tinguished gentlemen—our fathers, sons, brothers, uncles and friends,

you, our African-American males.

We dedicate this publication to those struggling to end the cycle of to-

bacco abuse and live a tobacco-free life for others to emulate. Further-

more, we salute those who seek to help others create a healthy environ-

ment for families and communities.

Statewide, CoC is an affiliated tobacco educational entity of the Louisi-

ana Public Health Institute and The Louisiana Campaign for Tobacco-

Free Living that works to:

1. Reduce tobacco-related morbidity and mortality among Louisiana's

African-American communities;

2. Enhance the awareness of the dangers of tobacco products;

3. Eliminate tobacco use, consumption and secondhand smoke expo-

sures; and

4. Eradicate health disparities caused by or related to tobacco by coor-

dinating, organizing and implementing tobacco prevention and con-

trol policies and activities through collaborative partnerships.

It is our sincere hope that your eyes are

open to the dangerous health effects of

tobacco usage and secondhand smoke.

We solicit your service and your resolve

to assist our team to continue to build

healthier, tobacco-free communities.

Take a stand and join us.

Linda Early Brown

Director

WWW.SUAGCENTER.ORG Page 1

~An affiliated program of the

Louisiana Public Health Institute

and The Louisiana Campaign

for Tobacco-Free Living

CONTENTS

Page 2 1-800-QUIT-NOW

MEN, TOBACCO & RELATIONSHIPS

Unfaithfulness, financial carelessness and

irrational behavior are a few relationship

killers for women. Now, many are adding

tobacco usage to their list of no-nos.

SMOKING & IMPOTENCY

The mood is set. The time is right

yet nothing happens in the bedroom.

Men are finding out why smoking

cigarettes can kill their mojo.

BREAKING THE CYCLE

Join the movement! Pledge today

to break the cycle of tobacco use in

our homes and in our communities

for our children.

14

12 20

M E N, M E N T H O L & M A Y H E M

Many men choose to smoke mentholated cigarettes over non-

mentholated products. See how this minty flavoring is costing lives

and how it makes quitting more challenging for smokers.

Is the menthol madness here to stay—forever? Read more. 6

C E S S A T I O N S T R A T E G I E S

Yes, quitting is difficult. But, there is hope. Learn proven cessation

strategies that will keep you focused while fighting for a new life—a

tobacco-free life. Plus, what health benefits are evident for

former users both short and long term? 18

H I G H P R E V A L E N C E

“We used to pick it…now we smoke it.”

This quote printed by the Center of Multicultural Health holds great

truth. Why is the use of tobacco products so prevalent among black

males in America? And, where does Louisiana rank among

other states concerning the use of tobacco? 4

AT-A-GLANCE In 1994, tobacco executives

swore before a congressional

hearing that they believed

nicotine was not addictive.

Perpetual deceit to increase

revenue sales continue,

especially within

communities of color.

P

“Telling lies to

be true!”

“Don’t Believe

the Hype!”!

resident Obama signed the Family Smoking

Prevention and Tobacco Control Act in 2009

giving the Food and Drug Administration

power to regulate the manufacturing, market-

ing and sale of tobacco products.

Before this landmark legislation was institut-

ed, executives sought to entice potential and

existing customers, including young children

and youth, with a variety of candy and fla-

vored tobacco products.

“Defy The Lies!” WWW.SUAGCENTER.ORG Page 3

African-Americans have a long con-

nection with tobacco dating back to

the days of slavery. The use of to-

bacco products is the single most

preventable cause of death due to

smoking-related diseases. Annually,

its use kills more African-Americans

than murders, AIDS, drug/alcohol

use and car crashes combined, some

47,000 per year.

Concerns are abundant regarding

the high prevalence of tobacco use

by African-American men (ages 18

and older). According to the CDC,

as of 2011, while the smoking per-

centage among African-Americans is

comparable to that of Whites (24%

to 23%), their rate of smoking is

much higher than that of Hispanics

(19%) and Asians (16.9%). Louisi-

ana ranks number 2 in the nation

with the highest percentage of Afri-

can-American smokers. (U.S. Cen-

ters of Disease Control and Preven-

tion). In spite of these percentages,

the same studies show that African-

American men smoke fewer ciga-

rettes than their white counterparts

but they suffer disproportionally

from deadly and preventable

diseases connected to tobacco use

such as lung cancer, heart disease

and stroke. The question then be-

comes what are some of the factors

that lead to this higher percentage

of tobacco usage among African-

American men. Is it just a part of

the social norms within ethnic com-

munities? Is it because of the hip-

hop culture? Is it because everyone

smokes and everyone thinks it is

acceptable? Below are some of the

possible leading factors.

Education/Income

Within the general African-

American population, the preva-

lence of smoking declines as the ed-

ucation level increases. According

to recent studies, 42 percent of low

income African- Americans smoke.

Half of those who did not graduate

from high school smoked, com-

pared to 33.5 percent who were

high school graduates and 36 per-

cent who had a college education

(Tobacco-Free Kids).


HIGH TOBACCO

Prevalence IN BLACK MALES

WWW.SUAGCENTER.COM Page 5

Similarly, in past studies, the smoking rates were over 3.4 times

higher among males over age 25 who had less than a high school

education (34.5%) compared to those with a college education.

In addition, as income increases, tobacco use decreases.

Advertising/Marketing

Advertising and marketing are very powerful and effective tools

for selling tobacco products in the African-American communi-

ties. It is done disproportionately in communities of color as Af-

rican-Americans are the primary targets of the tobacco industry.

Within low income communities, ads are in abundance both in-

side and outside of establishments.

In addition to the ads, which promote positive images, the indus-

try supports cultural events, provides African-American scholar-

ships, makes financial contributions to colleges/universities and

continues to maintain a positive influence in communities of

color.

In 2006, according to the American Lung Association, over 34

billion dollars were spent daily on advertising, mostly on discount

coupons and promotions. African-Americans are exposed to at

least 892 ads per year.

Stress

Various studies have been conducted to determine the relation-

ship between stress-related issues such as unemployment, poor

housing and schools, discrimination, drugs, etc. and the high

prevalence of tobacco use in African-American communities.

However, the results of these studies have shown conflicting re-

sults. Studies to determine a definitive correlation are ongoing.

Mentholated Tobacco Products

“Young blacks have found their thing, it’s menthol in general and KOOL in

particular.” (Philip Morris Tobacco Company, 1974)

This conclusion was drawn as a result of studies conducted by

the tobacco industry many years ago and a concentrated effort

has been made since to saturate communities of color with these

products.

According to information from the Louisiana Campaign for To-

bacco-Free Living, in 2008, 3 of 4 (75%) of adult African-

Americans prefer menthol cigarettes compared to 23% of their

white contemporaries.

Most Popular Brands

Among

African-American Males

Although these are simply possible

leading factors of high prevalence rates

in males, no one can speak definitively.

Some argue it’s culturally acceptable.

Others believe it’s an unbreakable cycle

while a few suggest that tobacco usage

among this demographic is a matter of

poor choices. Whatever the reasons, it

is an indisputable fact that tobacco us-

age are killers among men of color.

So, what can be done to save a genera-

tion and others to come? Let the cycle

of usage end with you. Join the revolu-

tion and declare that enough is enough

(see page 21).

"Menthol cigarettes have been mar-

keted to some of the most vulnera-

ble segments of the population,"

says Phillip Gardiner at the Tobac-

co Related Disease Research Pro-

gram at the University of California.

"For half a century, people with

the least resources and the most

to lose have been the target of

this product."

Gardiner calls the constant bom-

bardment of advertising and mar-

keting strategies within communi-

ties of color ‘the African-

Americanization of menthol

cigarette use.’

It remains a mystery why certain

demographics of people prefer the

minty flavor of mentholated ciga-

rettes over a non-mentholated

product, but it’s an indisputable

fact that these products are costing

lives—by the thousands.

A national survey reported by the

American Legacy Foundation

reveal that of the 19.2 million

menthol smokers—80% are Afri-

can-Americans, 32% Hispanics

and 24% white. Menthol products

account for 27% of the country’s

cigarette market with three major

brands: Newport (9.8%), Marlboro

Menthol (5.4%), and Kool (2.5%).

Regardless of the brand, one re-

search scientist calls it ‘the mint that

kills.’

Products containing menthol are

believed to be less harmful and less

addictive. According to the Ameri-

can Cancer Society (ACS), this

could not be further from the truth.

ACS reports that ‘less intense fla-

vors of menthol cigarettes may lead


M

E

N


Did You Know…?Did You Know…?Did You Know…?

to more problems such as increased nico-

tine and carcinogen inhalation and de-

creased cough reflex and throat sensa-

tions.

On average, a smoker inhales 200 mg

of nicotine per cigarette by taking

around 10 puffs. Menthol users tend

to take more deeper and longer puffs,

increasing the amount of nicotine

levels and cancer–causing agents ex-

posure.

Those who smoke regular cigarettes

tend to experience a smoker’s cough,

which may decrease or eliminate their

habit. Menthol flavoring makes it

easier to smoke because it coats the

back of the throat and hinders the

body’s instinctive coughing reflex.

“Many menthol smokers are motivated to

quit, but may have a more difficult time

doing so than regular cigarette smokers,”

said Jennifer Pearson, PhD, MPH, Re-

search Investigator

for the Schroeder In-

stitute for Tobacco

Research and Policy

Studies (SI) at Legacy

and lead author of the

study. “If the FDA

were to ban menthols, hundreds of thou-

sands of smokers might get that extra

push they need to make the life-saving

decision to quit smoking rather than

switching to a non-menthol brand,”

said Pearson.

Previous research from the SI published

suggests that a menthol ban might pre-

vent up to 600,000 smoking-related

premature deaths by 2050, a third of

those among African-Americans.

“...removal of menthol

cigarettes from the market

would benefit public health

in the United States.” ~Tobacco Product Scientific Advisory Committee (TPSC)

Menthol accounts for around 25% of the

cigarette market and is the flavor most

used by teens.

Among high school smokers in the U.S., 43%

smoke menthol cigarettes.

84% of high school smokers are black.

YES, you can make a difference.

Join thousands of individuals, organizations, government

agencies and others calling on the Food and Drug Administra-

tion to remove menthol flavoring from tobacco products.

The time to act is now.

Take ActionTake ActionTake Action———NOW!NOW!NOW!

Secondhand smoke is composed of smoke released

from the burning end of a cigarette and exhaled main-

stream smoke, which is smoke exhaled by the smoker.

Cigarette smoke contains more than 4,000 chemical

compounds. Secondhand smoke contains many of the

same chemicals that are present in the smoke inhaled by

smokers.

The National Toxicology Program estimates that at

least 250 chemicals in secondhand smoke are known

to be toxic or carcinogenic.

The Surgeon General concludes that:

There is no risk-free level of exposure to

secondhand smoke: even small amounts of

secondhand smoke exposure can be harmful to

people’s health.

Many millions of Americans continue to be ex-

posed to secondhand smoke.

A smoke-free environment is the only way to fully

protect nonsmokers from the dangers of

secondhand smoke. Separating smokers from

nonsmokers, cleaning the air, and ventilating

buildings cannot eliminate exposure of nonsmok-

ers to secondhand smoke.


The Southern University System (SUS) Board of

Supervisors, at its October, 2011 meeting, ap-

proved a policy to make all campuses within the

SU system 100 percent tobacco-free, effective

January, 2012.

Use of tobacco is prohibited by students,

staff, faculty or visitors.

Use of tobacco products (cigarettes, e-cigarettes, cigars, cigarillos, pipes, bidis, hookahs, smokeless or

spit tobacco, snuf, snus) is prohibited in all campus buildings, facilities or property owned or leased by

Southern University System and outside areas of the campus where non-smokers cannot avoid

exposure to smoke.

The CoC Network has been educating the African-American community, statewide, for a number of years on this

issue. It was a logical next step to challenge the University to take the lead in helping to educate the future leaders

of this country. Through ongoing efforts, the organization is committed to providing educational programs that

stress the need for a healthy environment. “The Southern University System and CoC are very excited about this

life-altering and awe-inspiring opportunity for the students, faculty and staff statewide,” states director Linda

Early Brown. “The University has historically set exemplary standards for others to follow and this policy is

not an exception.”

Let’s continue to support the SU System’s goal of change—the first

college system and HBCU in Louisiana to become tobacco-free.

Your Health Matters at Southern University…

Creating a Healthier Place to Live, Work & Learn!

WWW.SUAGCENTER.ORG Page 9

Men, Tobacco and Heart

Disease

Did you know that nearly 20 percent of all deaths from

heart disease are directly related to cigarette smoking?

In fact, heart disease

is a major cause of

death among men and

is the leading cause of

death for women in

the United States, ac-

cording to the Centers

for Disease Control

and Prevention

(CDC).

Heart disease includes

conditions such as

coronary heart dis-

ease, heart attack,

congestive heart

failure and congenital

heart disease. Every

cigarette smoked causes detrimental effects to the heart

because smoking is a major cause of corona artery dis-

ease. The longer a smoker smokes, the more damage is

caused to the heart.

Studies prove the addictive substance in tobacco pro-

ducts, nicotine, speed up the heart and narrow the arte-

ries, which makes it harder for enough blood to reach

this vital organ. The nicotine present in smoke causes

heart disease by:

Decreasing oxy-

gen;

Increasing

blood pressure and

heart rate;

Damaging the

cells that line coro-

nary arteries and

other blood vessels;

and

Increasing

blood clotting.

Other health issues

such as high choles-

terol combined

with smoking sig-

nificantly increases the risk of heart disease. Smoking

can also cause blood vessels to narrow, decrease blood

flow and can lead to rupture of cholesterol plaque in

the blood vessel wall and blood clots.

1. Reduce stress 4. Eliminate tobacco 5. Exercise 3. Limit alcohol 2. Maintain proper diet

5 Healthy Heart Tips for Men

~Source: Centers for Disease Control and Prevention


Diabetes mellitus is the third leading cause of death among African-American men, according to the American

Diabetes Association (ADA). Medical researchers have found that Type 2 diabetes often occur in succeeding

generations of families. It has also been documented by the ADA that black men demonstrate higher incidences

of risk factors associated with the development of diabetes: poor diet, inactivity, being overweight, smoking,

high cholesterol and hypertension.

There are three

types of diabetes;

Type 1, Type 2, and

Gestational Diabe-

tes. This article will

focus on Type 2

which is called

adult-onset or non-

insulin-dependent

diabetes (NIDDM).

According to the

new guidelines for

exercise in Type 2

Diabetes, African-

American men account for more than more 50 percent of all diabetes cases. It has been shown that even

though the body produces normal levels of insulin it cannot be used by the body.

Type 2 diabetes occurs slowly. It is often diagnosed after it has caused severe damage to major

organs in the body, such as the heart, eyes, kidney, or nerves. Damage and com-

plications to the organs can be reduced commonly through exercise, weight loss

and oral medication.

~Sources:

American Diabetes Association: African Americans and Complications

Diabetes Monitor: Diabetes in African Americans

Medscape: New Guidelines for Exercise in Type 2 Diabetes


W I N N I N G with D I A B E T E SW I N N I N G with D I A B E T E S

WITHOUT T O B A C C O

SISTERS SAY, “ENOUGH IS ENOUGH! I’M DONE!”

TOBACCO USE AMONG MEN IS KILLING RELATIONSHIPS

Since many African-American men

become addicted to tobacco prod-

ucts at an early age they are less

likely to be concerned about its ef-

fects on future relationships. This

is especially true since most see

smoking as a solo habit only affect-

ing them. However, with increased

educational awareness these men

are beginning to learn that not

only is their health and well-being

affected, but also the health of

family and friends around them.

There are many relationship issues

that men should consider when

using tobacco products, whether in

established relationships or those

being newly formed.

Personal Health

African-American men are at a high

risk for mortality and morbidity to-

bacco related issues such as lung

cancer, even though they smoke

fewer cigarettes than other ethnici-

ties. This is true even though they

consume fewer cigarettes daily than

white men, African-American men

have a shorter life span than other

men by 13-14.5 years. This potential

lower life expectancy creates stress.

Dating

Because of the increasing negative

social stigma attached to tobacco

use, dating options may be more

limited. According to the CDC,

only a small percentage of women

use tobacco products (17%). How

likely will a person consider being in

a relationship with a person who

uses tobacco products? The health

and physical affects and declining

appearance on the body may only

further reduce dating choices. Some

examples include: yellowed teeth,

fingers, and fingernails, bad breath,

and a lingering stale odor on clothes

and hair.

Marriages

Even though it is likely that usage

precedes marriage the consequences

can nonetheless be devastating to

the spouse. It can create fear and

uncertainty about the future related

to 1) the possible effects of second-

hand smoke on the spouse, 2) the

possible care taker role she may

have to take on as a result of long

term health and disability issues of

the smoker, 3) the smoker’s guilt of

the burden he may have placed on

the spouse, 4) the fear of premature

death of smoker. “Remember, while

you may choose to accept the risks

associated with smoking, your chil-

dren and your nonsmoking partner

have not.” (Dr. Kin D. Houde,

MDMS)

Finances

Purchasing tobacco products can be

a very expensive endeavor over an

entire life span. This financial bur-

den can create a harsh economic

strain on the family’s budget and

for individuals, especially those with

lower incomes. Furthermore, statis-

tics indicate there is a higher use of

tobacco products among low socio-

economic income individuals.

In conclusion, consider the follow-

ing facts of tobacco use on relation-

ships:

Negative health effects on the

smoker and possibly spouse;

Increase secondhand smoke

illnesses;

Decrease social interaction;

Limited social interaction.

“Recognizing and preventing men’s health problems is not just a

man’s issue. Because of the impact on wives, mothers, daughters

and sisters, men’s health is truly a family issue.”

~Congressman Bill Richardson, 1994


WWW.SU

WRINKLES! WRINKLES!

WRINKLES! Contrary to popular belief, men are just as concerned

about their outward appearance as women. So, what

happens when internal damage caused by smoking be-

gins to manifest as early winkles?

Research suggest that smoking likely accelerates the rate

of skin aging by producing more of an enzyme called

matrix metalloproteinase (MMP). In healthy skin, this

enzyme breaks down collagen fibers, so new collagen

can be formed. Collagen is the support mechanism for

the outer skin. When destroyed or

reduced, wrinkles are inevitable—

even prematurely in woman and

men. Tobacco use drastically affects

the skin’s elasticity, texture, color

and chemical composition. Dam-

aged skin is more susceptible to

countless conditions like eczema and

both cancerous and noncancerous psoriasis.

Dermatologists conclude that a tobacco-free lifestyle is

easier for your entire body, including your skin.

TOBACCO & TEENAGERS


~Source: www.about.com

"It is important to know as much as possible about teenage smoking

patterns and attitudes. Today's teenager is tomorrow's potential reg-

ular customer and the overwhelming majority of smokers first begin

to smoke while in their teens. . . . The smoking patterns of teenagers

are particularly important to Philip Morris. . . the share index is

highest in the youngest group for all Marlboro and Virginia Slims

packings. At least a part of the success of Marlboro Red during its

most rapid growth period was because it became the brand of choice

among teenagers who then stuck with it as they grew older. "

~Market research by Phillip Morris researcher

March 31, 1981

They are vibrant. They’re impressionable, adven-

turous, impulsive and determined to obtain desires,

even if it cost their lives. These innate characteristics

of teenagers serve as the premise for industry execu-

tives to capture and sustain usage. Undoubtedly, teen-

agers are critical to continued financial security.

5 FACTS ABOUT TEENAGE SMOKING

The National Institute of Health reports that:

1. 90 percent of smokers began before the age 21.

2. Everyday, almost 3,900 adolescents under 18 years

of age try their first cigarette. More than 950 of

them will become daily smokers.

3. About 30 percent of teen smokers will continue

smoking and die early from a smoking-related dis-

ease.

4. Approximately 1.5 million packs of cigarettes are

purchased for minors annually.

5. The lungs of teens who smoke will not develop

fully, which puts them at higher risk for lung dis-

ease.

In order to reverse the negative consequences of to-

bacco’s aggressive assault, tobacco prevention special-

ists remain vigilant. Educational awareness sessions

and activism opportunities along with policy imple-

mentation exist to promote healthier choices.

Tulane University School of Public Health and Tulane University School of Public Health and Tulane University School of Public Health and

Tropical Medicine Study Findings:Tropical Medicine Study Findings:Tropical Medicine Study Findings:

Men who smoked more than 20 cigarettes daily

had a 60% higher risk of erectile dysfunction,

compared to men who never smoked.

15% of past and present smokers have

experienced erectile dysfunction.

Men who currently - and formerly - smoked were

about 30% more likely to suffer from impotence.


Smoking = impotence!Smoking = impotence!Smoking = impotence!

SMOKING CAN LEAD TO SMOKING CAN LEAD TO SMOKING CAN LEAD TO

ERECTILE DYSFUNCTIONERECTILE DYSFUNCTIONERECTILE DYSFUNCTION

Studies reveal that what happens or does not happen in the bedroom can be more than physical.

Guys, if

things aren’t

heating up in

the bedroom

like they

should, you may want to quit

smoking cigarettes.

Erectile dysfunction or male

impotence is the inability to achieve

or sustain an erection suitable for

sexual intercourse. Psychological

and physical factors stem from

various issues such as sleep

deprivation, chronic illness, certain

medications, anxiety or stress and

alcohol abuse. In recent years,

studies have linked impotence with

the use of tobacco products.

According to an article published by

WebMD Health News, there are

five ways smoking can cause

impotence in males.

Five Ways Smoking Can

Lead to Male Impotence

1) Carcinogen-laden smoke builds

up in the lungs. The mixture of

nicotine and carbon monoxide

in a cigarette increases your

heart rate and blood pressure,

which result in straining the

heart and blood vessels. When

your heart is strained, it is

unable to pump the large

amount of blood needed to

achieve or maintain an erection.

2) Inhaling carbon monoxide

deprives the muscles, soft tissue

and brain of oxygen, making

your whole body, and especially

your heart, work harder. If your

heart is straining to pump blood

throughout the body, you might

be able to initially get an

erection, but it will ultimately

become weaker or you may

find that getting an erection is

difficult.

3) Smoking results in fat deposits

in your blood vessels that

narrow and constrict the flow of

blood to the organs. If the

blood vessels are constricted,

the body will be starved of

blood to maintain the vital

organs. This can result in a

lack of blood for the male

reproductive organs.

4) Smoking can lead to

cardiovascular disease, also

known as hardening of the

arteries. When blood vessels

become hard and lose their

flexibility, this impacts the

efficient flow of blood through

the body. Any deficiency in

blood within one of body

systems will be revealed in some

sort of physical manifestation,

such as erectile dysfunction.

5) There is a misconception that

low tar cigarettes are better or

less deadly than their full-tar

counterparts. Much of this

misinformation is due to

marketing. The problem with

low-tar and nicotine cigarettes is

the smoker usually inhales more

smoke and cancer-causing

agents with each puff to get a

better buzz, and in many cases is

causing more bodily harm than

smoking full tar and nicotine

cigarettes.

Researchers have found the use of

Erectile dysfunction medication to

be helpful but not a solution.

Viagra, Cialis, Levetra and natural

cures geared toward treating this

condition will only treat symptoms;

however, the problem will still exist.

Suggested findings all conclude that

quitting is the best way to correct

this condition in males. By

eliminating the presence of other

conditions and the use of tobacco

products, males should be able to

enjoy sexual intercourse with their

loved one.

~Sources:

Web MD News

www.hivehealthmedia.com


Here are a few facts concerning smokeless tobacco:

It is not a safe alternative to cigarettes.

There are 28 known carcinogens found in products.

Users are likely to develop oral, esophageal and

pancreatic cancers.

In essence, smoke-

less products—

chewing tobacco

and snuff—are just

as hazardous to a

user’s health as tra-

ditional products.

Unlike cigarettes,

cigars, etc. there are no threat levels of secondhand

smoke exposure, rather users pose even greater risks to

themselves. A user places a pinch of tobacco between

cheek and gum, sucking or chewing on the product and

then discarding or swallowing the remaining juice and

saliva.

As concluded by The National Cancer Institute (NCI):

‘Smokeless products do, however, contain nicotine.

These products can therefore lead to nicotine addiction

and dependence. Medical studies reveal that users have

blood nicotine levels similar to cigarette smokers, and

that these blood levels linger longer in smokeless users

than in smokers.’

In other findings, the most serious health impact of spit

tobacco is the development of precancerous white

patches in the mouth (leukoplakia), gum disease and

heart disease, according to NCI. At any age, oral can-

cer can occur more frequently among snuff dippers

compared with non-tobacco users.

In fact, the risk of cancer of the cheek and gums may

increase by 50 percent among long-term snuff users.

Leukoplakia is defined as a white sore or patch in the

mouth that can become cancerous. Studies reveal high

rates of leukoplakia at the place where the pinch is

placed. A study conducted by the American Dental

Association shows that almost 75 percent of daily users

of moist snuff and chewing tobacco had non-cancerous

or pre-cancerous sores in the mouth. All experts in this

field of study conclude that the longer a user uses, the

more likely he or she will develop leukoplakia.

In the same study, many cases revealed seven to 27 per-

cent of users exhibited early signs of gum recession and

bone loss around the teeth because of irritation or elim-

ination of the tissue.

Furthermore, spit tobacco may also play a role in cardi-

ovascular disease and high blood pressure. This occurs

when nicotine enters the users' bloodstream through

the lining of the mouth and/or the gastrointestinal

tract. Nicotine causes the heart to beat faster and

blood pressure to rise.

Additional Resources:

Smokeless Tobacco

National Library of Medicine's MedlinePlus

Smokeless Tobacco: A Guide for Quitting

National Institute of Dental and Craniofacial Research

Smoking & Tobacco Use: Smokeless Tobacco

Centers for Disease Control and Prevention



SUCCESS STORIES The journey toward quitting can be a difficult one.

Regardless of the chosen path, it begins with a de-

termined mind to overcome an addiction that can

rob a person of their life. Here are a few survivors

who’ve lived to share their stories of success.

Francis Hardnett, a resident of

Baton Rouge, smoked Kool

cigarettes for 10 years but

stopped some time ago. “I quit

because it was the Godly thing

to do,” says Hardnett.

Admittedly, it was difficult for

him to quit but he thanks God

for giving him the strength he

needed to succeed. Once he’d quit, he realized

that he did gain several pounds.

Jokingly, he says, “I’d rather ‘be fat’ than to smoke

cigarettes! To help me quit, I put a pack of my

favorite brand in my pocket. When I had the urge

to smoke, I would remember the verse of scrip-

ture that talks about being led into tempta-

tion...and refused to smoke. I really thank God!”

Wilson Owens, 55, of Bonita,

started smoking Swisher Sweet

cigars at the age of 28. “After

one of my older brothers suf-

fered a heart attack and was

told to quit or die, it was a

wake up call for me,” he says.

“One lesson that I learned was

that a major health scare

doesn’t have to happen to you in order to understand

the severity of tobacco use. When this happened to a

close family member, I knew it was time to quit, even

though I was an occasional smoker. It’s still harm-

ful.” Owens has been tobacco-free for 24 years.

“If I knew then what I know now about the dangers, I

wouldn’t started smoking—at all!”

Dameoyn L. Woodley started

smoking in 1986 at the age of 21.

Age 38, he was diagnosed with a

heart condition and decided to

quit during Great American

Smoke Out (GASO). And, he

did!

“Even before I was diagnosed

with a heart condition (atrial fibrillation), I knew that I

needed to quit. Smoking is very expensive...and my

habit had a negative effect on my family relationships,”

admits Woodley, introspectively, who smoked a pack of

Newport (menthol) per day. “You know, it just wasn’t

worth it.”

His experiences have taught him a lot of wisdom that

he readily shares with others. “I would tell anyone who

is a smoker to quit before it’s too late. Don’t wait until

it impacts your health….or your family. Anytime is the

right time to quit!”

A resident of Luling, Richard Jen-

kins was only 15 years of age

when he began smoking ciga-

rettes. He started in 1970 and

smoked his last cigarette in 2010.

“I knew I had to stop,” shares

Jenkins. “I tried to quit several

times but didn’t. But, when I was

diagnosed with leukemia and a severe bronchitis

infection, I told myself that if I didn’t quit smoking

I wouldn’t have a chance at beating this condition.”

When he left the doctor’s office—the same day—

his mind was made up to kick his habit. He’s been

tobacco-free for two years.


BENEFITS OF QUITTING

Within 20 minutes

Blood pressure and heart

rate drop.

After 12 hours

The carbon monoxide level

in your blood returns to normal.

After two weeks

to three months

Blood circulation improves and lung function

increases.

After one to nine months

Coughing, fatigue and shortness of breath decreas-

es and the risk of infection is lessened along with

an increase in energy level.

After one year

The excess risk of coronary heart disease is half

that of a smoker.

After five years

Decrease risk of lung, mouth, throat, esophagus,

bladder, cervix and pancreas cancers, as well as the

risk of a stroke.

After 10 years

The risk of dying from lung cancer is about half

that of a person who is still smoking.

After 15 years

1. Define goals: List reasons for quitting and keep

them as a constant reminder.

2. Set a quit date: Choose an attainable timeline

to begin your journey of quitting.

3. Create a tobacco-free environment: Get rid

of all tobacco products.

4. Keep busy: Avoid idleness and boredom.

5. Learn new habits: Engage in healthy behavior.

6. Garner support: Contact family and friends

for support, if you feel the urge to indulge.

7. Reward success: Celebrate victories through-

out your journey.

~Sources: Campaign for Tobacco-Free Kids

www.becomeanex.org


111---800800800---QUITQUITQUIT---NOWNOWNOW

www.quitwithusla.orgwww.quitwithusla.orgwww.quitwithusla.org

Yes, You Can! Help is Here.Yes, You Can! Help is Here.

Name of Facility Location Contact Information

Fairfield Medical Clinic 2149 N. Foster Drive

Baton Rouge, La. 70806

(225) 357-7768

Robert Moore, M.D. 225 Pecan Park

Alexandria, La. 71303

(318) 442-1002

Medical Center of Gentilly 7901 Downman Road

New Orleans, La. 70126

(504) 244-1991

St. Charles

Community Center

843 Miling Avenue

Luling, LA70070

(985) 785-5800

LSU Health

Science Center

1501 Kings Highway

Shreveport, La. 71101

(318) 813-2233

Alyce Adams, MD 3106 Cypress St.

West Monroe, LA 71291

(318) 322-0458

I AM A MAN.

I AM A PROUD

BLACK MAN.

I AM A STRONG

BLACK MAN.

I AM EMPOWERED

AND EDUCATED.

I AM CoC.

I AM A SON.

A BROTHER.

AN UNCLE.

A MENTOR.

A COACH.

A TEACHER.

A COMMUNITY

LEADER.

A MAN OF FAITH

BUT…

MOST

IMPORTANTLY—

I AM A FATHER.

SON,

I PLEDGE TO YOU

TODAY THAT

ENOUGH

IS

ENOUGH.

I AM BREAKING THE CYCLE OF HIGH

TOBACCO PREVALENCE IN

OUR FAMILIES, OUR HOMES,

OUR NEIGHBORHODS

AND

OUR COMMUNITIES.

IT ENDS WITH ME.

JOIN THE REVOLUTION.

~Father to Son

We stand for our sons!We stand for our sons!We stand for our sons!


Our kids are worth the effort!


JOIN THE REVOLUTION. Pledge TODAY that this vicious cycle of high tobacco prevalence in black males

ends with YOU. Join thousands throughout Louisiana continuing the fight for

healthier, tobacco-free families and communities of color.

IT ENDS WITH ME.

B E B E B E S M A R T.S M A R T.S M A R T.

B E B E B E

T O B A C C O T O B A C C O T O B A C C O --- F R E E. F R E E. F R E E.

Create a Create a Create a HealthyHealthyHealthy Place to Place to Place to

Live, Work and Learn. Live, Work and Learn. Live, Work and Learn.

A Tobacco Education Initiative at

Southern University Agricultural Research and Extension Center

Communities of Color (CoC) Network

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