Teen Brain, Smoking, Stroke Risk

Teen Brain, Smoking, Stroke Risk, Heart Attack Risk

Those experts have some data to indicate that the teen brain is not yet mature; those experts say this excuses them, but mothers do not agree. Smoking increases a number of risks to future health, including stroke risk and heart attack risk.

Smoking Doubles Stroke Risk
Teenage brains are certainly immature, but they are capable of understanding what’s important to them. Say, “Smoking doubles stroke risk” to them, and they won’t hear it. Say, “Smoking makes your breath smell” and you’ve got a better chance, or “Smoking makes your teeth yellow.”

Smoking Doubles Stroke Risk Closer to Home
The best way to keep your teen from smoking is not to smoke yourself, or to quit if you already smoke. You already know that getting your teen to do what’s good for him is to help him envision a future for himself, so that he sets goals and establishes plans to achieve those goals. The same goes for you – if you want to see all those grandchildren and great-grandchildren, don't risk a stroke -- stop smoking.