It was another frigid morning at Fort Drum, NY. and the 10th MTN DIV soldiers were in full swing of smoking their daily physical training session. On the other hand, Fort Drum MEDDAC Performance Triad and Public Health Nurse Team had a different type of smoking in their mind.
The P3 Team, led by Maj. Timothy Whoolery, Chief, Public Health Nurse, held a 'Soldiers Health Fair' at the Magrath Sports Complex, Fort Drum NY., to educate soldiers on Tobacco Cessation, Sexually Transmitted Infections Prevention, and Performance Triad.
The P3 promotes healthy lifestyles and choices aiming at Sleep, Activity, and Nutrition -- three essential components that impact the health and performance. While each element is independently important, optimal performance is achieved when all three are synchronized simultaneously, thus sustaining the overall health, readiness, and resilience.
"The turnout and feedback this morning from the soldiers were very positive," said Whoolery. "The smoking cessation materials, STI prevention and P3 information were so well received, we are planning additional health promotion events in similar venues in upcoming months."
Susan Mizgala, a Registered Nurse with Public Health Nursing, discussed smoking cessation along with P3; helped many soldiers sign up for the Tobacco Cessation Classes provided by the Army Wellness Center, Fort Drum.
According to the CDC, cigarette smoking is the number one risk factor for lung cancer and there still are many soldiers who are trying hard to break the habit.
In the United States, cigarette smoking is linked to about 90% of lung cancers. Using other tobacco products such as cigars or pipes also increases the risk for lung cancer. Tobacco smoke is a toxic mix of more than 7,000 chemicals.
"Soldiers and family members are encouraged to contact us or stop by our health promotion events in the future," said Mizgala. "We have abundance of information on how to maintain a healthy lifestyle."
Fort Drum MEDDAC offers Tobacco Cessation Classes on second, third and fourth Thursdays of the month from 8:00 a.m. to 10:00 a.m. Classes are held at the Army Wellness Center classroom in building 10550, 5th Armored Division Drive.
Fort Drum Army Public Health Nursing can be reached at 772-6404 for additional information.
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