subject: The Importance Of Avoiding Cigarettes And Tobacco For Kids And Teenagers [print this page] Although the health risks of tobacco and smoking are well known, every year millions of young people decide to pick up their first cigarette. A very high percentage of kids that try smoking early in their lives will go on to be regular smokers. In fact, 90% of all adult smokers started smoking when they were kids. Because of this, it is important for parents to communicate the dangers of smoking to their children. Every day, 1,200 people die in the United States from tobacco related disease. To avoid going down this path, children should be educated enough to avoid smoking.
The Dangers Of Smoking For Kids
There is a long list of reasons why smoking is harmful to your health. Cigarettes are loaded with a variety of different chemicals, many of which are extremely harmful to your body. The most significant ingredient in cigarettes is nicotine. Nicotine is an extremely addictive chemical that can cause a smoker to become addicted within a few days of first using it. Nicotine affects your mood as well as your heart, lungs, nervous system and stomach.
Other health risks from smoking include coughing, throat irritation, increase in blood pressure and heart rate, bronchitis and emphysema. In addition, studies have shown that children who smoke are more likely to try other drugs such as cocaine, heroin or other illicit drugs.
Why Kids Are Attracted To Smoking
There are a number of reasons why kids are attracted to smoking. Although tobacco companies are technically banned from marketing to kids, there is still a large amount of advertising and images in pop culture that can reach kids. In addition, peer pressure can be a very strong force for kids and teenagers. Overcoming these pressures can be very difficult for a child. One of the most important tools you can give a child to help them avoid smoking cigarettes is education. Having a frank and open conversation with your child about smoking can be very beneficial. If you are a smoker, communicate to your child that if you could do it over again, you would never have started. Quitting smoking yourself is the best example you can give to your child to discourage him or her from starting smoking.
There are a few warning signs that you may notice that might signal your child may be involved in tobacco. If this is the case, try to talk to your child without being accusatory. Here are a few common signs of tobacco use:
*Tobacco smell
*Coughing
*Hoarseness
*Bad breath
*Throat irritation
*Stained teeth
*Shortness of breath
*Decreased athletic performance
To learn more about the dangers of smoking or to schedule an appointment for advice on how to quit, contact your North Potomac pediatrician as soon as you can.
