Did you know that more than 13% of high school students were current smokers in 2007 and an estimated 4% of all middle school students were current smokeless tobacco users in 2006? What drives these youths to pick up this nasty habit? Some factors include low socioeconomic status, approval by peers or siblings, and accessibility. They believe that tobacco use is the norm and has functional benefits.

Florida celebrities like Everette Brown have teamed up to share the message about the negative effects of tobacco with children and adolescents. He discusses how important it is to “make sure that your body is healthy and make sure that it’s fresh. You know it’s going to help you in the long run.”

The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention have also been campaigning tobacco-free sports initiatives by providing youths with information about how tobacco can inhibit athletic performance. Nearly all first-time users begin before high school graduation, and the CDC believes that most youths will never start if they miss this curve.

But perhaps the most effective prevention factor is parents. “Despite the impact of movies, music, and TV, parents can be the GREATEST INFLUENCE in their kids’ lives.” The campaign for tobacco free kids provides conversation topics for parents and kids when discussing tobacco. Have you had this vital conversation with your children yet?

For more information and conversation points, click here.