The Flint Hills Community Health Center is observing National Men’s Health Week, which runs through Sunday, by reminding men that the health benefits of tobacco cessation are many.
According to a press release by Lanis Houser of the health center, tobacco use is the leading cause of preventable death and disease in Kansas. According to the 2007 Kansas Behavior Risk Factor Surveillance System survey, nearly one out of every five Kansas men reported they smoke.
“Smoking is the leading cause of lung cancer, heart disease and respiratory disease and is a contributing factor to many other chronic diseases,” the press release stated. Smokeless tobacco also poses a significant risk because of oral cancer and tooth decay.
“When men are looking for ways to improve their health, live longer and live better, they need to look at their tobacco use,” Houser said. “Quitting tobacco will make you feel better, breathe easier and greatly reduce your risk of disease. Quitting smoking will also improve your family’s health by reducing their exposure to second hand smoke.”
The Flint Hills Community Health Coalition is partnering with the KU Medical Center to provide a tobacco cessation teleclass which will begin at 5:30 p.m. on June 25. Space is limited and there is no fee for participation for men and women. To register for the class, contact Lanis Houser at 342-4864, Ext. 293. To reach the Kansas Tobacco Quitline call (866) 526-7867.