Thursday, November 17, 2011

[Peckers_Pics] Male/Gay Health-Discussion-PICS Muscle Wars-Nov 18, 2011-Trump-TARGET-FOX NEWS-Salvation Army



Muscle Wars-Nov 18, 2011 / Health-News-PICS
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Health, Wellness, Exercise, Reflections:
Your No-Fail Guide to Stop Smoking Now

By Stephanie Schorow, November 17, 2011

Let's face it: It's hard to quit smoking. You've tried and failed several times. This time, though, you have lots of help — from support groups, new therapies and drugs to smart phone apps. To mark the Great American Smokeout (Nov. 17), check out these 15 tips to kick the habit for good.

You know all about the dangers of smoking. It's the leading cause of chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD). It also causes cancer, heart disease and stroke. It kills 440,000 people a year. And we're not even counting its hit on your pocketbook and social life.

But despite these reasons to stop smoking, you just keep coming back for more. Many others - about 23 million women smokers, according to the American Heart Association - feel your pain and struggle to kick the habit.

In fact, smoking among adults rose for the first time in 15 years, according to statistics released this month by the Centers of Disease Control and Prevention.

In a phone survey of 22,000 adults, about 20.6% said they smoked in 2008, an increase from 19.8% in 2007.

But there's good news: If you want to quit smoking, it's easier than ever before thanks to a host of new tools, techniques and tips to stop smoking.

Medications, a promising new vaccine, nicotine replacement therapies, counseling services, telephone support lines, smart phone apps and social media tools like Twitter and Facebook can help even longtime smokers free themselves from tobacco's iron grip.

So stub out that cigarette, throw away that pack, and stop smoking now. Here are 15 tips to get cigarettes out of your life for good – no ifs, ands or butts. 1. Don't be discouraged by past failures.
You've tried to quit smoking and failed. Are you thinking: There's no way I can ever succeed?

Don't let past failures derail your healthy future. Instead, start thinking of quitting as a journey that stops and starts. If you slip, just begin again.

Smokers learn from each slip, so build on that knowledge, says Thomas Glynn, director of international cancer control for the American Cancer Society.

People rarely succeed on the first try, he says. "It usually takes five to seven serious attempts before they finally quit."

2. Figure out why you want to quit smoking.
Quitting is like giving up a best friend. It's not a decision to make lightly, Glynn says.

So take a deep breath and consider your motivation for quitting. Do you want to watch your children or grandchildren grow up? Walk up a flight of stairs without wheezing? Save money?

Whatever your reason, write it down on a paper and laminate it. Carry it with you at all times. When the urge to smoke overwhelms you, read it.

"You need to remind yourself of that motivation," Glynn says.

3. Don't go cold turkey.
Everyone seems to know the person who decided to quit, tossed the packs and never picked up a cigarette again. Beware: Those people are rare.

Going cold turkey may be the most popular quit-smoking method, but it's "a fairly spectacularly, ineffective way," says Douglas E. Jorenby, professor of medicine and director of clinical services at the Center for Tobacco Research and Intervention at the University of Wisconsin.About 95% of quitters who go cold turkey when they quit smoking relapse within a year, he says.

The most successful quitting programs had three components: counseling, social support and medication, according to the U.S. Public Health Service's 2008 analysis of 30 years of smoking-cessation research. Your plan should incorporate all three.

"Quitting smoking is hard enough, why not … help that process?" asks Erik Augustson, clinical psychologist and behavioral scientist with the tobacco control research branch of the National Cancer Institute.

4. Call-in tech support.
Quality counseling is as close as your cell phone or iPhone app.
Call a quit line or text a friend if the urge to smoke gets too strong.

Look for communities on the Web, or Facebook page and Twitter feed.

You can even download applications, some free, to your iPhone to track your smoking and set goals for cutting back. Check out My Quit Line (search on your iPhone or iTunes or tobacco-cessation.org) or Smokeless (iphonehealthapps.net/).

All 50 states have free quit-smoking telephone lines, usually staffed with well-trained counselors to help devise a plan and give you medical advice, Jorenby says.

The national access number to state-based quit services is (800) QUIT NOW (784-8669), usually open during business hours.

Surprisingly, only 1%-4% of smokers use them.

5. Try nicotine replacement therapy (NRT).
The Food and Drug Administration (FDA) has approved five forms of over-the-counter NRTs: gum, patch, lozenge, nasal spray and inhaler.
 
Talk to your doctor or pharmacist to see which might be best for you and check your health insurance policy to see which might be covered.

Also, before you choose a method, think not only about your reasons to stop smoking, but also your smoking habits. Do you need something to do with your hands? The inhaler or nasal spray might be best.

Do you need an oral fix? Try gum.

Would you prefer to not think about it at all? Slap on a patch in the morning and forget about it.

6. Consider prescription drugs.
The FDA has approved two prescription medications to help people quit smoking. Both act on the brain, where nicotine stimulates the pleasure centers.

One is the antidepressant bupropion (brand name Zyban), because smokers typically suffer from depression more than non-smokers do, Glynn says.

In a study of 707 smokers comparing bupropion to a placebo, researchers found that the drug relieved depression and helped them drop the habit. After a year, 21% of the bupropion users had stayed away from cigarettes; only 11% of the placebo group did, according to the findings published in 2003 in the Journal of Internal Medicine.

The second medication, Varenicline (brand name Chantix), reduces cravings by blocking the brain from getting pleasure from nicotine. For it to be effective, however, smokers must stick with the prescribed 12-week regimen, Glynn cautions.

"On average, medication can double your chances of successfully quitting, and if you can combine the medication with [counseling] you can triple your chances," he says.More promising is a vaccine that will prevent nicotine from arousing the brain's pleasure sensors.
 
The National Institute on Drug Abuse, a division of the National Institutes of Health, gave Nabi BioPharmaceuticals a $10-million grant to take its anti-nicotine vaccine, NicVAX, to Phase III clinical trials.

Any public release is years away, but "it holds a lot of potential," says the NCI's Augustson. "I don't think there's going to be a magic bullet. Smokers may still have to do work."

7. Don't limit yourself to one method to help you quit smoking.
Smoking is such a pernicious addiction that no one treatment has produced a quit rate of more than 30%, Augustson says.

But combining NRTs or medications may help overcome the odds, and help you avoid the dangers of smoking, studies show.

Jorenby, for example, was one of the lead researchers on a clinical trial that compared several smoking-cessation therapies. The results, published this year in the Archives of General Psychiatry, found that combining the patch and lozenge was the most effective method to quit smoking.

The study's 1,504 smokers were randomly assigned to one of six treatment groups: nicotine lozenge alone, nicotine patch alone, bupropion alone, patch plus nicotine lozenge, bupropion plus nicotine lozenge or placebo. They also received counseling.

After six months, those using the patch and lozenge had a 40% quit rate. (That percentage, however, was expected to decline over time, researchers said.) This may be due to the steady nicotine supply from the patch and periodic boosts from lozenges, according to the scientists. 8. Set a Quit Day.

Saying "I'll quit tomorrow" without planning is a surefire way to fail.

Set a Quit Day several weeks ahead so you begin to picture yourself as a nonsmoker and contemplate the reasons to stop smoking, Glynn says.

That way you can start to make small changes to smoking behavior. For example, don't have that cigarette with your first cup of coffee.

9. Clean house.
Before Quit Day, ransack your house and toss all stashes of cigarettes.

Get that pack out of the sock drawer and the car's glove compartment. Clean up ashtrays and butts that you've flicked into the bushes around your house.

It may seem revolting to think of smoking used butts, but what seems "absolutely disgusting today may not be three or four days after your quit date," Jorenby says.

10. Get your friends and family on board.
Before Quit Day, warn your family that you'll be grouchy or nervous. Tell your friends not to let you bum cigarettes, no matter how much you plead. Recruit a buddy to help talk you through bad moments – even when 2 a.m. cravings hit.

"Social support tends to be more important for women than for men," Augustson says.

But some women want someone checking in; others want support, but not nagging.

"Define what kind of help you want," Augustson advises.

Women are also more likely than men to seek formal treatment from counselors, support groups or smoking clinics; guys often try to tough it out, experts say. 11. Avoid triggers.

One of the top tips to stop smoking is to stay away from situations that trigger a craving for a smoke. If you once smoked with buddies outside the office lobby, avoid it.

"Most people who smoke are very good at being able to anticipate [triggers] because their smoking is so regular," Jorenby says.

Alcohol can set off potent cravings because a smoke and drink often go together. So stay away from martinis or beer for several months or go to a smoke-free bar.

Cut back on coffee too. Because nicotine helps to metabolize caffeine in the body, you may find that you're bouncing off the walls with your normal consumption.
 
Of course, some situations just can't be avoided, so you'll just have to stay strong.

"I've had people tell me with a straight face, `Doc, my car won't start unless I have a cigarette in my hand,'" Jorenby says.

12. You can beat that craving.
A craving is like a wave that peaks and falls away.

"No matter how intense the craving is, it will fade on its own," Augustson says.

So how do you get through those times when you think you'll explode without a cigarette?

First, try a chewing nicotine gum or popping a lozenge. If that doesn't help, distract yourself. Take a walk or hot bath – or call a friend. The desire will eventually fade.

13. Get real about weight gain.
Let's face facts: Most quitters gain 5-10 pounds during the process.

More women than men fear losing the battle of the bulge after quitting, though guys admit they worry about it too, Jorenby says.

But concentrate on the big picture here: The dangers of smoking and related health problems far outweigh those from a slight weight gain. You'd have to put on 100 pounds to equal the damage of smoking, Glynn says.

Remember: Quitters often get more active and feel better about walking, running and exercising.

And keep healthy munchies - carrot and celery sticks or fruit - on hand to help get your oral fix or curb the craving to eat.

14. Reward yourself.
Don't think of quitting as denying yourself. Instead, reward your progress and efforts with treats one week, two weeks and three weeks after Quit Day.

But to avoid weight gain, don't reward yourself with food. Get a massage, a new exercise outfit or spend a day at a spa.

"People who feel they've lost a best friend need positive reinforcement and something to look forward to during what feels like self-deprivation," Jorenby says.

15. Avoid smoking scams.
Don't invest in stop-smoking products that seem to be too good to be true. They probably are.

There's no data proving the effectiveness of replacement electronic cigarettes or e-cigarettes — battery-powered devices in which you inhale nicotine vapor, but take in none of the other harmful chemicals found in tobacco smoke, Glynn says.

"You have to question whether you want to be a guinea pig," he says.
What about hypnosis or acupuncture to help you quit smoking? All three experts agree that clinical trials haven't proven that these methods work.
Take Action:
  • Boycott Bill O'Reilly and FOX News and their advertisers. Bill discussed a French commercial by McDonalds that was meant to show that McDonalds is Gay Friendly. Bill said what is next? Is McDonalds going to be Al-Qaida friendly as well? Imagine - Bill O'Reilly compares Gays to Al-Qaida! Further, Boycott Fox's Owner "Rupert Murcoch" and get him thrown in jail for illegal - political donations, corruption, greed, bribery, hacking!
  • Boycott Target, Best Buy, Gold's Gym - for donating money towards anti-gay political candidates/organizations. Update: (12/26/2010): Target is continuing to donate to anti-gay groups/causes/politicians. Update 03/08/11 - Lady Gaga Ends Target Partnership, Reportedly Over Target's Poor LGBT Stance. Update 3/25/2010 - Target displays their hypocrisy and Sues California Gay Rights Group for Lobbying Outside Stores. Target is attempting to block the LGBT right of free speech! STOP SHOPPING AT TARGET!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!! Update 4/8/2011: Target lost its case to stop the LGBT from canvassing in front of their stores. A huge PR Disaster for TARGET! Perhaps Target should go out of business as they betrayed their investers and customer base. Target contributed massive funds to a politician who would like to exterminate gays. Now, Target can not stop us from Boycotting them, nor picketing, nor talking to customers near their stores; although, Target allows a anti-gay company such as the Salvation Army to stand outside their door and speak with customers and raise money. Isn't this a double standard?
  • End DOMA (Defense of Marriage Act). Prevents Federal employees and Gays in the Military from gaining equal benefits. Prevents Gay Partners from gaining equal benefits.
  • Pass a LGBT friendly ENDA (Employee Non-Discrimination Act). ENDA would prevent employment discrimination of LGBT workforce.
  • Boycott Salvation Army as they will not hire Gays! "DO NOT DONATE TO THEM."
  • BOYCOTT "Chick-fil-a" for donating money to anti-gay groups.
  • BOYCOTT KOCH INDUSTRIES PRODUCTS- to include their products: Angel Soft toilet paper / Brawny paper towels / Dixie plates, bowls, napkins & cups / Mardi Gras napkins and towels / Quilted Northern toilet paper / Soft 'n Gentle toilet paper / Sparkle napkins / Vanity fair napkins / Zee napkins / Georgia-Pacific paper products & envelopes / All Georgia-Pacific lumber & building products (INVISTA Products) / Lycra / Stainmaster Carpet. The billionaire - Koch brothers are ultra republican - tea bag founders/supporters that do not support causes of the LGBT community.
  • Boycott WALMART - The National Gay and Lesbian Task Force criticized Wal-Mart for denying employee benefits to same-s-x partners and for failing to prohibit discrimination based on gender identity. By comparison, the group said two other chain stores with a strong presence in New York, Costco and Walgreens, did much better.
  • "Tune Out Trump", Boycott all Trump Hotel, casinos, holdings, The Apprentice and NBC Network! At CPAC, Trump said he is considering a run for president as a Republican. In a interview with the Des Moines Register, Trump added that he opposes all forms of legal recognition for gay couples, not just marriage. "They should not be able to marry," he said. So why does NBC keep the Apprentice when Donald Trump has stated he may run for president? After making racist remarks about Obama and recv'g public backlash, Trump decided not to run for president after NBC renewed his awful TV Show. How can NBC re-new the clown's show after he pulled such hateful shenanigans?
  • Boycott Georgia for Execution of Troy Davis @ 11:08 EST, Sep 21, 2011:
    Former US President and Former GA Gov. Jimmy Carter felt that TROY DAVIS should not be executed and deserved a re-trial. The Former Director of the FBI felt that TROY DAVIS Was Not Guilty! Do not drive through Goergia as it is dangerous. Do not fly via Atlanta. For your safety -Do not travel to GA. TELL YOUR COMPANY NOT TO PARTICIPATE IN A CONVENTION IN GA! "Georgia Executes Innocent People!"

And Now, Our War of the Fittest!

This group is called "Peckers Pics." The English - slang definition of "pecker" is to pluck at the truth. Therefore, we peck at items such as Gay Men's Health, Male Fitness, Gay (LGBT) Politics & Issues. In this section you may peck at each photo in order to decide the winner of the "war of the fittest!" Whereas, you should select the "Male Athlete" that may inspire you to exercise and "get fit!" Warning: This may stoke you!
Your participation in discussion of health / news articles - appearing in this message is greatly appreciated.
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Klebber Toledo
 
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Earl Wallace
 
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Lance Lamar
 
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John Rivera
 
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John Holliday
 
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Dave Petrun
 
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You Decide!
Taipei Pride; Oct 29, 2011
Stoked?
Taipei Pride; Oct 29, 2011
Marcus Bachmann To Gay Rights Activist: Pay Up
Josh Petri - November 17, 2012 - TPM

Don't you just hate it when gay people don't pay their bills after posting clandestinely collected footage of your homosexuality "curing" therapy sessions?

The Wall Street Journal is reporting that Marcus Bachmann is attempting to collect $150 from gay rights activist John Becker, who attended five therapy sessions at the suburban Minneapolis Bachmann & Associates on behalf of Truth Wins Out. Becker clandestinely recorded these sessions and released a video of his experience back in July.

Mr. Bachmann argues that the collection attempt has nothing to do with Becker's sting operation. Becker signed a contract that stated he would pay for no-shows, and after the tapes were released, he neglected to show up for two remaining sessions.

"It's not the amount of money," Bachmann said. "For us it's the principle."

Bachmann personally called Truth Wins Out to demand payment because the therapist was "not comfortable returning Mr. Becker's call disputing the bill." In the message, Bachmann demands payment by Friday, and threatens to turn the bill over to a collection agency if the money isn't received by that time.

Truth Wins Out has posted the phone message on their website.

The Bachmann clinic has been criticized by gay rights activists for years, who argue that they practice "reparative therapy" to "cure" homosexuality or "pray away the gay." Bachmann denies that his clinic conducts this type of therapy.

"A client came in stating they had a concern about same-sex attraction. The client asked specifically for assistance with this. I don't know a counseling agency that wouldn't accept or talk about that person's concerns," Bachmann said.

He added that Becker "was an incredible actor, emotional and deep in his emotion. The therapist joined in on empathy and concern."

Video: http://youtu.be/rOAdWX_9Mos
Every gay and lesbian person who has been lucky enough to survive the turmoil of growing up is a survivor. Survivors always have an obligation to those who will face the same challenges."

....Jake
Important Notice: Our ObamaBiden2008 Group works hand - in - hand with Peckers PICS (Both groups were co-created to work with each-other). To prevent duplication of articles and questions, all members of this group are urgently recommended to join ObamaBiden2008. We have the LGBT boycott list and discuss end of DADT, etc... There are 3 gay teen suicides in the USA - daily! There are Hate crimes against gay people. There are gay people who are fired over their sexual identity. There are gay people who died for our cause! These groups are focused towards Yahoo Members who sincerely care about LGBT rights and are interested in Gay Mens Health! Most important, we have a most critical election in 2012 that shall determine the future of LGBT rights and our health care (as many suffer from pre-existing illness)! Please Join Now!
 
Pass This Bill! - Occupy Wall Street!
 
 
 

 



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"Every gay and lesbian person who has been lucky enough to survive the turmoil of growing up is a survivor. Survivors always have an obligation to those who will face the same challenges."

...Jake (Moderator)



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