Peer groups can be important in helping the teen make decisions about the use of drugs, alcohol, or tobacco. If the peer group rejects or accepts these, the teen with diabetes will probably do likewise. Because smoking and chewing tobacco age the blood vessels and lead to a greater likelihood of diabetic kidney disease and later of heart attacks, tobacco use is particularly harmful to the individual with diabetes. As in all people, chewing tobacco can lead to dental problems and cancer of the mouth. Similarly, smoking cigarettes is associated with an increased likelihood of lung cancer and heart attacks.
Alcohol consumption can result in delayed severe insulin reactions.
Drugs that alter awareness of time have their greatest effects on diabetes by interfering with consistency in eating and insulin injections. Participation in a support group for teenagers with diabetes can be a help. A support group can be both a social and a discussion group. It may help the teenagers share their feelings with others who also have diabetes. We encourage teens to bring a friend to the clinic visit to continue to learn how they can support their friend with diabetes.