Tobacco and Smokeless Tobacco

Did you know? Model Christy Turlington revealed late in 2000 that she has early-stage emphysema, caused by smoking. She smoked a pack a day for a decade, but had been a nonsmoker since 1995.

Quit now. You never know when it will be too late.

If you smoke, please stop, and if you don't smoke, don't start.

Parents Influence Tobacco Use in Children

Smoking during Pregnancy said to be linked to 1 in 10 Infant Deaths

Safer Child Expert Voice page - Patrick Reynolds talks to children about smoking

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Parents okaying tobacco -- A report from the Social Science Research Center at Mississippi State University says that about 18 million Americans think it's okay if their children smoke. "Smoking in America: 35 Years After the Surgeon General's Report" says smoking is allowed in the house or car by 31 million households, and that children are exposed to smoke in 21.6 million homes. But experts say secondhand smoke in dangerous, especially to children.

Additionally, parents shouldn't dismiss their effect on their children, with regard to smoking. A December 2001 report says that parental disapproval (or approval) carries much more weight with children than does peer pressure. The report, from Dartmouth Medical School, Hanover, N.J. and printed in the Dec. 3 issue of Pediatrics, said that teens who believed their parents would strongly disapprove were much less likely to smoke, even if peers approved.

Smoking during pregnancy linked to infant deaths -- According to the American Legacy Foundation (a public health group formed by the 1998 tobacco settlement), smoking during pregnancy is linked to one in 10 infant deaths and carries other significant health risks. The organization's Great Start Campaign, begun in December 2001, encourages pregnant mothers to quit smoking. A hot line offers free counseling (1-866-667-8278), and more information can be had from the American Legacy Foundation Web site.

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