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
Graphic Design & Layout
Shawntell Lewis-Harrell
Contributors
Shawntell Lewis-Harrell
Urina F. Holt
LaTonya Owens
Frankie Poland
Shirley Simon
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).
Page 4 1-800-QUIT-NOW
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
Page 6 1-800-QUIT-NOW
M
E
N
WWW.SUAGCENTER.COM Page 7
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.
Page 8 1-800-QUIT-NOW
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
Page 10 1-800-QUIT-NOW
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
WWW.SUAGCENTER.COM Page 11
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
Page 12 1-800-QUIT-NOW
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
WWW.SUAGCENTER.COM Page 13
~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.
Page 14 1-800-QUIT-NOW
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
WWW.SUAGCENTER.COM Page 15
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
Page 16 1-800-QUIT-NOW
WWW.SUAGCENTER.COM Page 17
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.
Page 18 1-800-QUIT-NOW
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
WWW.SUAGCENTER.COM Page 19
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!
Page 20 1-800-QUIT-NOW
Our kids are worth the effort!
WWW.SUAGCENTER.COM Page 21
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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