Cigarette smoking is the leading cause of preventable death and disease worldwide and is extremely harmful for people living with HIV (PLWH). Although HIV infection was previously considered to be fatal, it has increasingly become a manageable chronic disease due to advancements in HIV treatment. As PLWH live longer as a result of antiretroviral therapy, they now experience substantial comorbid, non-AIDS-related illnesses such as cardiovascular disease, chronic lung disease, and cancer.
Dr. Shahida Shahrir Mellon’s June 1 Studium Generale entitled, “Cigarette Smoking and HIV: Health Consequences and the Need for Cessation among People Living with HIV,” will focus on the importance of understanding that smoking cessation has emerged as a critical, modifiable component to improve the health of PLWH.
Dr. Shahrir Mellon recently received her Ph.D. from the University of Washington School of Public Health. Her research focuses on tobacco use, smoking cessation, and populations living with HIV. She currently works on several projects related to these topics for the University of Washington and the Veterans Health Administration. She lives in Sequim with her family and serves on the Clallam County Board of Health.
The event is free and open to the public, and will begin at 12:35 pm in The Little Theater and be live-streamed through Zoom at https://pencoledu.zoom.us/j/82308557946, Meeting ID: 823 0855 7946.