In March, the State Health Registry of Iowa released its 2008 Cancer In Iowa Report. In 2008, lung cancer will be responsible for 24.4 percent of all cancer deaths in women and 30.3 percent of all cancer deaths in men, in Iowa.

The risk of developing most cancers can be reduced by practicing healthy habits such as exercise, a healthy diet, moderate alcohol consumption, and stopping or avoiding tobacco use. Smoking is the leading avoidable cause of cancer and is thought to be responsible for about 30 percent of cancer deaths in the United States according to the National Cancer Institute.

There is help for people addicted to tobacco. There are multiple methods that can be used to stop tobacco use. It is important to talk to your doctor about which method might be best for you.

• Nicotine gum
• Nicotine transdermal patch
• Nicotine nasal spray
• Nicotine lozenge
• Nicotine inhaler
• Cigarette filters
• Prescription Zyban
• Prescription Chantix

The UI Hospitals and Clinics Cancer Information Service has information on each of these methods.

The Iowa Quitline is a great resource for Iowans looking for help to quit tobacco. Call 800-QUIT NOW or 800-784-8669. Free counseling is provided in both English and Spanish. Quitline counselors can assist you in developing a quit plan, and for Iowans 18 and older, receiving a free two-week supply of nicotine replacement therapy.

For more information about any cancer concern, contact the Holden Comprehensive Cancer Center/Cancer Information Service:

Phone: 800-237-1225
E-mail: cancer-information@uiowa.edu
Walk-in: 200 Hawkins Drive, 4802 JPP
Iowa City, Iowa