Most middle school students don't smoke — only about 1 in 16 does. And most high school students don't smoke either — about 1 in 5 does (that means 4 out of 5 don't).
But why do those who smoke ever begin?
If your parent smokes, have you ever asked him or her to quit?
Yes
No
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There's more than just one answer. Some kids may start smoking just because they're curious. Others may like the idea of doing something dangerous — something grownups don't want them to do. Still others might know lots of people who smoke and they might think it's a way to act or look like an adult.
Fortunately, fewer people are starting smoking than a few years ago. Maybe that's because more and more people have learned that smoking and tobacco use can cause cancer and heart disease.
But sometimes kids can't really think that far into the future to worry about an illness they might not get for many years.
So let's talk about the problems that might affect kids more quickly:
bad breath
yellow teeth
smelly clothes
more colds and coughs
difficulty keeping up with friends when playing sports
empty wallet — cigarettes and tobacco products are very expensive!
Let's find out more about cigarettes and tobacco.