Research reports about 45% of the American population make one or more resolutions at the onset of each New Year- with some of the top resolutions involving weight loss, exercising more, getting finances in order, stopping smoking or drinking, spending too much or other “bad” habits. Research says that only about 25% of those who make resolutions fail at the 1 week mark, with another 40% reporting failure at 1 month. And those who fail at keeping their resolutions experience lowered self-esteem, sadness and depression. But there are ways to foster well-being while making resolutions. Here are some tips.

A new report conducted by the American Lung Association places Oklahoma as the number four “quit-friendly” state for tobacco users. The ALA report looked at federal and state level actions that make it easier for smokers to quit, including what tobacco cessation treatments are covered by a state’s Medicaid program. SoonerCare (Oklahoma Medicaid) provides all seven FDA approved medications to help smokers quit. Nicotine gum, patches, lozenges, inhaler, nasal spray, Chantix and Zyban are all covered.

Whenever governments want to collect more revenues, their reflex action is to raise taxes on cigarettes and alcohol, the so-called “sin taxes,” because both are harmful to human health. The Philippines is no exception. Two bills have been filed in both houses of Congress that will raise local cigarette taxes by 83 percent. Local cigarette manufacturers say, however, that the street price may go much higher. After cigarettes, alcohol will be next.