Health

By Hannah Evans, PA-C, Physician Assistant
Pulmonary and Critical Care Medicine of Northwest Ohio

According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), tobacco use is the leading preventable cause of disease and death in the United States. There are more than 16 million Americans living with a disease caused by smoking. Cigarettes contain several ingredients and, when burned, create smoke that contains thousands of chemicals, some of which are known cancer-causing agents. Those who smoke are at risk of developing disease and dying from smoking-related illnesses. 

Potential Risks of Tobacco Use
Smoking can cause harm to nearly every organ of the body. Regardless of one’s age, gender, race, or ethnicity, tobacco use can increase the risk of premature death. Cardiovascular (heart) disease, cancer, and chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD) are the three major causes of smoking-related death. There are 12 different cancers linked to tobacco use, including but not limited to lung cancer, colon and rectum cancer, and mouth and throat cancer. Other health consequences from smoking include poor reproductive health and decreased immune function, as well as increased risk of developing cataracts, type 2 diabetes mellitus, osteoporosis, and periodontal disease. 

By James H. Legge III, MSN, APRN-CNP, PMHNP, Certified Nurse Practitioner 
Psychiatric Center of Northwest Ohio 

The holiday months (mid-November to post-January) can be extremely difficult for loved ones suffering from mental illness. It’s postulated that family members and friends can reach intolerable levels of anxiety and depression during this time due to accentuated family dynamics, financial strain and other stressors.  

Veterans Day occurs at the beginning of this period and is a stark reminder of veteran suicide, in addition to the other mental health challenges that are experienced by this select group. While I was working on this topic with a local veterans’ services office, a book was brought to my attention called “Tribe,” authored by Sebastian Junger. This book stresses the importance of a strong interpersonal support network. One example discussed how Native American veterans, when reabsorbed back into their support network, experience significantly lower reported rates of mental illness-related problems. Instances such as this highlight the importance of support networks, demonstrating how we can help those suffering from the isolation of post-traumatic trauma. This thought process also helps better understand a true support network. (Continues)