It may seem like a little thing, but it’s really a big deal. On June 24, 2011, the U.S. Center for Medicare and Medicaid (CMS) announced new expanded coverage options that states may offer for tobacco cessation services.
Treating a substance abuse problem can be very complicated. Those who enter treatment often struggle with multiple substances of abuse. Patients may also have multiple mental disorders, including depression or anxiety in addition to their substance abuse problem.
Exposing a fetus to substances such as drugs or alcohol can result in birth defects, early delivery, developmental delays, miscarriage, and even death. Sadly, the unborn child may have to suffer lifelong consequences as a result of poor choices on the part of the mother.
It appears that at times, doctors’ desire to protect the feelings of the family of a deceased patient may be somewhat detrimental to general perceptions of the risks associated with smoking. In an effort to keep families from feeling the stigma of a smoking-related death, some physicians are not willing to state that as the [...]
The phrase, "It’s a hard habit to break" has been used in conversation and the news about smoking cigarettes. Bad habits can be anything from biting nails and knuckle-cracking to gambling and swearing. They are often seen as undesirable acts that people choose to do. But, according to the British Columbia Lung Association, "habit" is [...]
Comprehensive, well-funded anti-tobacco programs geared toward adults have also been found to reduce adolescent smoking, according to a new study. As policymakers face pressure to reduce spending on anti-smoking programs, this bonus effect should be kept in mind.
Smoking is responsible for elevating multiple health risks, including heart disease and several types of cancer. For diabetics, however, the stakes are especially high. A new study has revealed that nicotine is responsible for blood sugar levels remaining high over an extended period of time in those who have diabetes and smoke. The study was [...]
A new study has found that heavy smokers who enter residential treatment for nicotine addiction are more likely to remain abstinent from smoking for six months, compared to those who go through outpatient treatment. The study found that 52 percent of the patients remained abstinent from smoking six months after residential treatment, compared to 26 [...]
One of the more recent FDA-approved drugs for smoking cessation is Varenicline, sold by the brand name Chantix, and is showing promising results. Not only does it help curb withdrawal symptoms, but it makes smoking less enjoyable if the user begins the habit again – all without giving the user any nicotine.
Alternative theories on breaking nicotine addiction may present a simple message: if you think you want to quit, and really believe it through tools like hypnosis, you just might get closer to kicking the habit for good. Two kinds of hypnosis have been recognized as options in treatment plans for smokers – the self-guided format, [...]