According to the National Institutes of Health, nearly 25 percent of teens in the United States smoke. Smoking creates a wide variety of health risks--and for teens, the risks can be even more serious. Parents and adults who have consistent contact with teens play an essential role in educating them about the hazards associated with smoking.
Risk of Addiction
According to the National Institutes of Health, people who start smoking before the age of 21 have a higher rate of addiction. In addition, teen smokers are more likely to use alcohol or drugs, and up to 30 percent of teen smokers will eventually die due to smoking-related health issues.
Damage to Lungs
According to the Center for Young Women's Health, smoking can cause permanent damage to the lungs' alveoli, which process oxygen to the bloodstream. This damage can cause shortness of breath and a lack of endurance in activities that require efficient breathing and cardiovascular health, such as dancing, running or swimming.
Effects on Personal Hygiene
The Center for Young Women's Health notes that cigarette smoke can cause irreversible damage to teeth, skin and clothing. Cigarette smoke can cause skin to age and wrinkle more quickly, leaving a young smoker with damaged skin. The nicotine in cigarettes causes yellow stains to develop on the teeth, and the discoloration can be quite difficult to remove. In addition, the odor from cigarette smoke can saturate an individual's clothing and hair and is not easily removed.
Financial Cost
The Center for Young Women's Health notes that the cost of of a pack of cigarettes can be as high as $10. The cost can add up to be quite high over the course of a month or year, depending on how much a young person smokes. For teens, it can be quite difficult to financially support a smoking habit. In addition, a smoking habit can prohibit a young person from saving for future investments, such as transportation and education.
Long-Term Health Risks
According to the Center for Young Women's Health, teen smokers are at risk for long-term health issues such as lung cancer, heart disease and hormone imbalances. In addiction, the Mayo Clinic notes that teens who smoke frequently may experience health issues, such as heart attack and stroke, by the time they reach adulthood. The longer a person smokes, the higher the risk for these health problems.
