Smoking has been a universal addiction and it is no wonder that young kids and teenagers, even below 12 years are getting attracted towards this slow poisoning habit. Although, they are not aware about the negative effects smoking can make on their health, when they see their parents or near people smoking they get curious and the first step is taken out of curiosity. If this habit is not stopped in the initial phase, it can lead to addiction and in many cases stays on forever. Also the body of a teenager is in a growing stage and is yet to reach full bloom of growth. With smoking, this growth gets stunted and stops further physical development.  So, whenever you see your teenage kid getting into this habit make sure that you have made him aware about the hazardous effects smoking can cause. 

You can tell him from personal experiences or take him to the local physician who will enlighten him about the hazardous effects of smoking. Teenage tobacco smoking has really been on an increase since past decade and nowadays every 4 kids out of 10 are addicted to smoking.

Some of the hazardous effects of smoking are listed below:

• Lungs have air sacks which die if they are constantly exposed to nicotine (the prime ingredient of a cigarette). Due to this breathing problem start affecting and the teenagers face difficulty while doing routine activities like singing, dancing, playing etc.
• Stops the growth of lungs which leaves them unhealthy and weak owing to which lung problems can surface very early in life.
• Smoking neutralizes the cilia cells in lungs which usually protect dust and pollens from getting inside through nostrils. Depletion in cilia cells results in allergies and lung infections as the dust and pollens can directly reach the lungs.
• Cosmetic problems too arise due to tobacco smoking. Cavities, halitosis or aging of skin at an early age are the resultant of smoking addiction.
• Since during the teenage, hormones are at an early developing stage; exposure to smoking can lead to imbalance in hormone development. This imbalance can directly affect the physical as well as emotional development in a teenager.

Ways to stop teenagers from smoking:

• Approach the teenager or your kid with great love and compassion and make him aware about the negative effects of smoking. Never scold or degrade him in private and more so in front of his friends.
• Show your kid that you’re aware that it is going to be difficult for him to quit this habit instantly. Let him know that you are there to support or help him out.
• Take him to a professional counselor and try to be there at every appointment so that he will be confident about your support.
• Never expect success in the first effort. It is going to be difficult for him at the start. Encourage him at every step.

These simple steps can make your kid free from the addiction of smoking.