Still, there’s good news: Teen smoking is dropping steadily, according to a new survey from the National Institute on Drug Abuse (NIDA). “Smoking remains the leading preventable cause of premature death and disease in this country. Therefore, significant reductions in smoking translate into a great many lives lengthened and an even larger number of serious illnesses prevented – including heart disease, stroke, cancer and emphysema,” says Lloyd Johnston, principal investigator for the NIDA survey.

If you’re a parent of a young smoker, you need to understand why some youths start to smoke – and what will help them quit.

• It’s easy to become addicted. Studies have shown teens can become addicted after smoking as few as three cigarettes.
• Much of cigarette advertising focuses on getting teens to smoke. Most teens say tobacco ads don’t influence them, yet one study showed they generally smoke the three most-advertised brands.
• The unconscious mind can be conditioned. Advertising and entertainment figures give the impression that cigarettes give pleasure, reduce stress, make you popular and make you look mature.

Teens stand the best chance of quitting if they get some help from smoking-cessation programs, family and friends. About 1.3 million smokers of all ages quit each year. One or two out of every five participants in smoking-cessation programs are able to quit for at least a year.

Talk to your doctor before letting your child use any nicotine aids. Confirm they’re age-appropriate and won’t interfere with any medications your child takes. Your child also should ask smokers not to smoke around him or her. Participating in sports or walking, hiking and yoga can help your child reduce stress. Finally, accept that relapses do occur. To prevent discouragement, remind your child that most people try four or five times before they quit permanently.

You or your child can contact these organizations for support to quit smoking:

• American Cancer Society – 800-227-2345, www.cancer.org
• American Lung Association – 800-586-4872, www.lungusa.org