5 Things You Need to Know About Nicotine Addiction in Adolescence

1. Nicotine Addiction in Adolescence is Rampant

According to a 2004 national survey on drug use and health by the Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration, 4,000 kids under 18 smoke their first cigarette each day. Over 1,000 of them will become regular smokers. It's estimated that 4.5 million teens smoke, and 90 percent of adult smokers started before they were 21.

2. Exposure to Cigarette Smoking Is The Greatest Risk Factor

Peer pressure, curiosity, rebellion and the desire to fit in are a few reasons why cigarette smoking is attractive to young people. Kids who hang out with peers that smoke are more likely to start smoking, but parents also have an influence. Teens with two parents who smoke are twice as likely to start smoking themselves. Exposure to smoking in movies and advertising also has an impact on kids. One study found that 52 percent of kids whose parents didn't smoke started smoking because of movies.

3. Nicotine Addiction Leads to the Same Health Problems as in Adults

Nicotine by itself is not as harmful as the way it is ingested (smoking or chewing). Tobacco use leads to significant health problems in young people, including more frequent and more severe respiratory illnesses, decreased physical fitness and decreased lung function. But the biggest problem is that adolescent nicotine addiction often continues into adulthood.

4. Nicotine Is Just as Hard for Kids to Quit as Adults

Nicotine is highly addictive, no matter how old you are. Kids who smoke or chew tobacco are likely to experience withdrawal symptoms and powerful cravings if they try to stop. Withdrawal symptoms include irritability, difficulty concentrating, increased appetite, restlessness, anxiety and fatigue. Quitting requires commitment, diligence and support. If your teen has tried to quit smoking and is unable to do so, talk with your family physician about programs that can help overcome nicotine dependence.

5. Take Adolescent Addiction Seriously

Parents should take a stand and say no to tobacco use for kids. Talk openly with your kids about the health risks associated with smoking. Understand the attraction for kids and encourage them to never get started in the first place. If your child has already started smoking or chewing, help them make a plan to quit and stick with it. The sooner they stop, the easier it will be.