SMOKING A MAJOR TYPE OF ADDICTION

WHAT IS SMOKING? Smoking refers to the inhalation and exhalation of fumes from burning tabacco in cigars, cigarettes and pipes.

REASONS FOR TEENAGERS TO SMOKE Some want to act cool or act like someone special or dangerous They want to get attention They are curious about cigarettes Peer pressure They are stressed or nervous

FACTORS THAT INFLUENCE NICOTINE DEPENDENCE Genetics. The genes you inherit play a role in some aspects of nicotine dependence. Genetic factors may influence how receptors on the surface of your brain's nerve cells respond to high doses of nicotine delivered by cigarettes. Home and peer influence. Children who grow up with parents who smoke are more likely to become smokers. Children with friends who smoke also are more likely to try cigarettes. Evidence suggests that smoking shown in movies and on the Internet can encourage young people to smoke. Age. Most people begin smoking during childhood or the teen years. The younger you begin smoking, the greater the chance that you'll become a heavy smoker as an adult. Depression or other mental illness. Substance use. People who abuse alcohol and illegal drugs are more likely to be smokers.

THE SOCIAL CONSEQUENCES OF SMOKING In the 70's and 80's, smoking was seen as the cool and "in" thing to do. This was in no small part because of the tobacco industry's marketing campaigns portraying smoking as the activity of choice for rugged cowboys, rebels, sophisticated young women, star athletes, movie stars, and other role models for teenagers.

Today however, smoking is seen in a different light. Those who smoke, and those around them almost immediately notice: staining of fingernails, skin and teeth from cigarette tar tooth decay wrinkled skin "smoker's cough" and lots of excess mucus the smell of cigarette smoke constantly in their clothes, hair and breath

Smoking is less socially acceptable now than ever. Today, almost all workplaces have some type of smoking rules. Some employers even prefer to hire non-smokers. Friends may ask you not to smoke in their homes or cars. Public buildings, concerts, and even sporting events are largely smoke-free. And more and more communities are restricting smoking in all public places, including restaurants and bars. Like it or not, finding a place to smoke can be a hassle. Smokers may also find their prospects for dating or romantic involvement are largely limited to other smokers.

WAYS TO QUIT SMOKING Immediate: Stop at once. This has been found to be the best way to quit smoking for those who aren’t heavy smokers or haven’t been smoking for a long time. Gradual: Reduce the number of cigarettes gradually each day till you reach the no smoking stage. Another option is to delay lighting up another cigarette until you can go through a day without smoking.

REASONS NOT TO START SMOKING Look better Save money Avoid bad breath and mouth problems. More energy Happier heart and lungs Protect the health of others around you Keep your sense of smell and taste

SOURCES: smoking blog.html#sthash.xa9ZorLs.dpbs oking-and-teens-10-reasons-not-to-start.aspx Miloiu Alexandra Ioana