Smoking Cessation: You Don't Have to Gain a Lot of Weight

Smoking is not only the major cause of lung cancer in America, but also contributes to causing cancer of the tongue, larynx (upper airway), throat, pancreas (which can be devastating), kidneys, bladder and cervix. The heart, lung and blood vessels are also damaged by smoking. Despite all the information available on smoking, many young and older people continue to maintain this horrible practice. Actually, the majority of older smokers desire to quit but feel they can't.

Some are very concerned about being depressed or gaining weight. Well, recent studies have reported that people that have successfully stopped smoking are happier. Furthermore, there are ways to control the amount of weight gain that accompanies smoking cessation.

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Flu Season 2010-2011

Have you been vaccinated for this year's flu season? It’s not too late. Some southeastern states are reporting widespread flu activity. New York City has also seen a surge. Illinois is has increased reports of flu activity. Not as much talk about H1N1 compared to last year. But we experienced a very active seasonal allergy year in 2010. Winter allergy complaints have been very prevalent based on my assessment in our Chicago area offices.

This has me more concerned about this winter's flu season. People with asthma are in a high risk group for having complications related to flu syndrome. The most concerning complication is pneumonia.

The Centers for Disease Control recommend anyone 6 months of age or older get vaccinated for influenza. The target population has expanded because the flu vaccine has so little risk but significant potential benefit to those who get it.

Who shouldn't get the flu vaccine?

-Those under 6 months of age

-Anyone who has had a reaction to a previous flu shot

-People allergic to egg (but there is a way to still get the flu vaccine if you see an allergist)

-Those that have previously had Guillain Barre Syndrome

-Anyone who is allergic to a component of the flu vaccine

Many more details and updated information about the flu vaccine for 2010-11 can be found here:

CDC-Flu season 2010-11