Persuasive Essay Smoking

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Smoking has been a public health issue that has been receiving more attention in recent years with the smoking ban in restaurants and on hospital and school campuses. The reason for the ban on smoking in so many public places is not only to discourage smoking in general, but also to reduce the incidence of second hand smoke exposure. Tobacco use is the foremost cause of preventable death, disease, and disability in the United States (CDC). Infants and children are especially vulnerable to serious health issues from second hand smoke exposure. Infants who are regularly exposed to second hand smoke have a higher incidence of sudden infant death syndrome. Children who are regularly exposed to second hand smoke have more frequent ear infections and often develop asthma or upper respiratory infections (CDC). Adolescents who smoke have an associated risk for alcohol or substance use and high-risk sexual behavior. Exposure to second hand smoke increases risk …show more content…

Educating youth about the dangers of smoking is important in prevention, as well as in cessation. Smoking cessation programs are a valuable resource in the community to help adolescents quit smoking (health dept). Anti-smoking campaigns on television such as the “Truth” campaigns have proven to be effective in prevention of smoking in youth. Educate parents on the risk factors. Teaching parents the importance of knowing who their friends are, where they are and what they are doing. Teach parents to be vocal about the disapproval of tobacco use. Parents encouraging schools to enforce tobacco free campuses and policies for students and staff. Enforce movie age restrictions, discourage use of media that features smoking. Help adolescents cope with their problems and boost self-esteem. For the sensation seeking adolescent instruct parents on authoritative parenting

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