Consequences of Teen Smoking

Smoking is a bad habit. More than 17 percent of high school students smoked in 2009, according to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC). Smoking leads to an addiction, which is both physical and mental. Most teens smoke to be cool or because their parents do. The Campaign for Drug-Free Kids reports that 60 percent of high school smokers still will be smoking seven to nine years later.

Breathing Problems

• Smoking hurts the lungs.

  Smoking causes reduced lung function, which can lead to breathing problems. Chronic cough can result from smoking, as well as shortness of breath. The breathing problems associated with smoking can greatly harm the performance of athletes. The younger teens start smoking the more it can affect the growth of their lungs. This means that teen smokers may never reach normal lunch function as an adult.

Waste of Money

• Smoking is not a cheap habit. Many teenagers only work for minimum wage at part-time jobs. Other than the cost it seems easy for some teens to get their hands on cigarettes. Lack of enforcement of age restrictions in buying tobacco products is no help in teaching teenagers that smoking is a bad choice.

The Smell and Yellowing

• Ashtray breath stinks.

  Smoking stinks. Smoking gives people bad breath. It stinks up their homes, cars and clothing. The smell of smoke stays around for a while, and it is not easily covered with perfume. The smell of cigarette smoke on a person is an instant indication that they are in fact a smoker. Talking to someone with a mouth that smells like an ashtray may not be a fun experience for most people. Smoking also yellows the teeth of the smoker, and it even yellows the walls and ceilings in their home.

Other Health Problems

• Breathing problems are not the only health issues that can be brought on by teen smoking. Smoking also can lead to cancer of the lungs, mouth, bladder, liver and colon. Other concerns include increased problems with gastric ulcers, weak bones and early menopause in women. Teenage girls who take birth control pills and smoke have an increased chance of blood clots.