Posted By: Veronica Ortega
vortega@klkntv.com
It’s that time again to make your New Year’s resolution. For many, it’s to quit smoking. Officials with the Nebraska Department of Health and Human Services say they know it’s not easy but it is possible. The state created a program called Tobacco Free Nebraska to help people around the clock.
“I would recommend talking to your healthcare provider to talk about some of the best options that would work best for you. Also give the quit line a call. They have experts 24 hours a day, seven days a week that are there to help you,” says Amanda Mortenson with Tobacco Free Nebraska.
The hotline (1-800-QUIT-NOW) employs experts who are on hand to coach and provide information or guide people to FDA approved products that may help them quit using tobacco. Some of those include gum. patches, or prescription drugs like Chantix.
One product that is not an FDA approved quit aide is electronic cigarettes or e-cigs. According to the CDC about 13% of high students in the U.S. are now using them.
“It’s still a concern that there’s 13% using addictive products that we know causes death and disease,” says Amanda Mortenson.
Electronic cigarettes have toxins such as propylene glycol, glycerol, or both, plus nicotine and flavor. At this time experts don’t know the affect of e-cigs on your long term health.
If you’re thinking about quitting consider the benefits. According to the CDC, you reduce the risk of getting lung cancer, your heart rate and blood pressure drop, which can prevent things like a stroke.
“The new year is a great time to set that goal to stop using tobacco products and it’s something that can help you feel stronger and healthier in the new year,” says Amanda Mortenson.
In Nebraska the sale of e-cigarettes to minors is illegal.
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