This Care Conversation is part of a monthly speaker series at Roswell Park.
There are many important reasons to quit tobacco use while you are being treated for cancer. First off, both smoking and vaping decrease the effectiveness of your cancer treatment, meaning that you may need more or higher doses of treatment than non-users. Also, tobacco use increases the chances of developing side effects from your cancer treatment. Despite the negative effects of tobacco use, and your best intentions, quitting on your own can be difficult. That’s where Roswell Park’s Tobacco Treatment Services can help.
Combining behavioral therapy and quit medications
Research has shown that combining behavioral therapy and medications can significantly increase the success of your quit attempt. Open to all Roswell Park patients, Tobacco Treatment Services sessions are led by a licensed social worker who focuses on cognitive-behavioral interventions. Then, a licensed medical provider offers medication management for nicotine dependence. This individual works with you and your care team to find the best medication options for you.
To learn more about Tobacco Treatment Services at Roswell Park, patients and caregivers are invited to an upcoming Care Conversation session. On Tuesday, November 19 from 11 a.m. - 12 p.m., Emily Bargamin, MS, LMSW, Tobacco Treatment Specialist, will share more about:
- Why tobacco treatment services are an essential part of your cancer care
- What is included in a personalized tobacco treatment plan
- Is it important to quit tobacco AND vaping?
- Risks associated with continuing to smoke or vape
- Immediate and long-term benefits of quitting
Care Conversations is a monthly speaker series for Roswell Park patients and caregivers to support, encourage and educate. A 45-minute presentation is followed by a 15-minute Q&A session. The series takes place in The 11 Day Power Play Cancer Resource Center, which is located on the first floor of the main hospital next to the Tower Elevators.
You may also attend virtually via Microsoft Teams. You’ll receive the “Join the Meeting Now” link after registration and again the day of the event. Register today by calling 716-845-8659, option 1 or RSVP here.