Tobacco use continues to be the leading cause of preventable morbidity and mortality in the United States and causes approximately 435,000 deaths annually. Treating tobacco use and dependence is the topic of the next Science Café, at 6:30 p.m., July 15, at red9, 9th and M Streets in Lincoln. Attendees will hear from Eric Fung, Ph.D., a professor of pharmacology at the University of Nebraska Medical Center College of Dentistry.
His presentation will discuss the efficacy and potent side effects of FDA-approved treatments for nicotine dependence. He also will discuss the safe use of these products in pregnant women and the tobacco cessation clinic at the College of Dentistry, which provides counseling and treatment of nicotine dependence.
Dr. Fung has been with the UNMC College of Dentistry for 26 years. His research activities include determining the role of mercury in neurodegenerative disorders, the effects of nicotine on neuronal systems, and the effects of nicotine on bone remodeling.
Science Café is a free educational event sponsored by UNMC and other groups to increase the population’s science literacy. Hosted by UNMC, BioNebraska and the Nebraska Coalition for Lifesaving Cures, Science Cafes are held the first Tuesday of each month.
A more scientifically literate populace is a goal in UNMC’s strategic plan. The goal of the committee has been to introduce and get young adults interested in science by presenting it in a casual setting.
Free pizza, provided by the Nebraska Coalition for Lifesaving Cures, will be available for the first 50 people in attendance. Also, Dr. Fung will award door prizes to people for asking and answering questions, as well as provide dental samples to the first 60 attendees.
For more information on coming and past Science Cafes in Omaha and Lincoln, visit www.unmc.edu/sciencecafe.
As the state’s only academic health science center, UNMC is on the leading edge of health care. Breakthroughs are possible because hard-working researchers, educators and clinicians are resolved to work together to fuel discovery. UNMC’s extramural research support now exceeds $100 million, resulting in the creation of 3,600 jobs in Nebraska. UNMC’s academic excellence is shown through its award-winning programs, and its educational programs are responsible for training more health professionals practicing in Nebraska than any other institution. Through its commitment to education, research, patient care and outreach, UNMC and its hospital partner, The Nebraska Medical Center, have established themselves as one of the country’s leading health care centers. UNMC’s physician practice group, UNMC Physicians, includes 550 physicians in 50 specialties and subspecialties who practice primarily in The Nebraska Medical Center. For more information, go to UNMC’s Web site at www.unmc.edu.
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