It's not just a cigarette problem anymore. It is an addiction epidemic. There was a time when "smoking" only brought cigarette commercials to mind. Nowadays, vaping, nicotine, and tobacco products are everywhere. And it's not just adults who are affected by the growing number of these products-school-aged children and teenagers are vaping, smoking, and exploring all kinds of new harmful and addictive products.
Most people do not want to be addicted to something. Addiction is a compulsive need of a habitforming substance, and it’s complicated. Nearly 70% of adults who smoke express a desire to quit. Fortunately, when someone finally quits, regardless of age or how long they have been smoking, their health status and quality of life immediately improve. But overcoming addiction is extremely challenging and oftentimes requires professional help.
The University of Missouri and the Missouri Telehealth Network’s Vaping, Nicotine, and Tobacco Treatment ECHO is committed to addressing this addiction epidemic. Participants will work with an interdisciplinary team as they seek solutions to address vaping, tobacco, and nicotine use challenges with patients, students, and families. With a team of subject matter experts, we can help cessation efforts and work to reduce risk for chronic disease and adverse health effects and add as many as 10 years to a person’s life expectancy!
Anyone looking for access to tobacco treatment experts across the state (and nation) is invited to collaborate and learn together every 2nd and 4th Wednesday of the month from 12 noon - 1:00pm, beginning on January 11, 2023.