Question:

Can vomiting from having an eating disorder cause your teeth to decay?

Answer:

Yes. Changes in the mouth are sometimes one of the first physical signs of an eating disorder. Studies have found that up to 89 percent of bulimic patients (who binge eat and then vomit) show signs of tooth erosion. Stomach acid in the mouth that is the result of frequent vomiting can result in tissue loss and erosive lesions on the surface of teeth. The lesions can appear as early as six months from the start of bulimia. Teeth can become brittle, translucent and weak, which increases sensitivity to temperature changes. Extensive brushing or rinsing following vomiting can also aggravate tooth decay.

Question:

Are menthol cigarettes safer than other varieties?

Answer:

Menthol cigarettes are not safer than other varieties and may even be more dangerous. These cigarettes contain enough menthol to produce a cool sensation in the throat when smoke is inhaled. People who smoke menthol cigarettes may inhale more deeply or hold the smoke inside longer than smokers of non-menthol cigarettes.

Question:

I've smoked since I was 14, and I sort of feel it is too late to make a difference. Can quitting really help a lifelong smoker?

Answer:

Yes. It is never too late to quit. The sooner smokers quit, the more they can reduce their chances of getting cancer and other diseases.

By registering on-line at www.sa.psu.edu/uhs/qw, you can join the Penn State Quit and Win Survivor Challenge, or you can call 863-0461 for more information. The challenge begins February 3.