My daughter is 15 years old. Many of her friends have started smoking cigarettes, and now she is coming home smelling of cigarette smoke, too.
Tobacco use is the single most preventable cause of death in the United States.
Many children start smoking by age 11 and are hooked by age 14. Kids who use tobacco may develop respiratory problems. They also may be more likely to use alcohol and other drugs, and they certainly may become addicted to tobacco. In spite of movies, television shows, and music videos that glamorize smoking, you as a parent can be the most important influence in your child's life. If friends or relatives have died from tobacco-related diseases, let your kids know.