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Health Risks of Teenage Smoking

Smoking is dangerous for people of all ages. However, teenagers who smoke are at risk for some serious health complications as a direct result of smoking. The good news is that the teen's health will begin to improve within the first day after taking his last puff on the cigarette.

  1. Oral Health

    • Cavities, gum disease, halitosis and oral cancers are all very real possibilities for teens who smoke. In this case, even frequent teeth brushing won't prevent the diseases.

    Heart Disease

    • Teens who smoke increase the chance of developing heart disease at a young age. This is because the chemicals in cigarette smoke weakens the heart muscle and causes plaque to build up in the arteries.

    Respiratory Symptoms

    • Teenagers who smoke may develop asthma and other respiratory problems. These problems may lead to pneumonia if they are left untreated for a prolonged period of time.

    Fertility

    • A teen who smokes decreases his chances of having children later in life. While this may not matter to the teen now, it will probably matter when he gets older (see Resources below).

    Stunted Growth

    • The chemicals in cigarette smoke may make you stop growing normally. This may mean that you are shorter than your peers and that your internal organs, including your brain, don't form fully. This, in turn, may lead to an increased risk of mental illness.

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