High life

Underage smoking is one of the major health concerns facing our country today. This heinous act not only effects the perpetrator, but also children, men, woman, and the elderly alike. This act only leads to the downfall of any who come into contact with it. As well this addiction is a life long struggle based on the need to fit in that provides no benefit. Outside of the school doors, teenagers anywhere from 14 to 18 years of age spend countless hours smoking cigarettes and marijuana. On several occasions, I have witnessed 14 year old children smoking cigarettes in plain sight. This too during school hours. In one instance, a mother and her four month old baby were walking on the sidewalk. The perpetrators did not consider to move out of the way nor did they halt their activity for a few measly seconds to prevent damage to the baby or as a sign of common courtesy. I have not addressed these individuals as I know they have seen numerous presentations and have been spoken to by administration countless times. Many tactics are used to halt these addictions, but go by unheard to many. The grip nicotine has on many teenagers is too strong to be broken by the early signs of drug abuse. Cigarettes contain over 4000 chemicals in which the majority of them cause cancer. Second hand smoke kills between 1100-7800 innocent Canadians every year. I believe the reason most teenagers decide to take up smoking is to fit in. In high school, there are many cliques. Each with it's own specific requirement. I feel that many whom do not fit this criteria tend to find an alternate source for support. These individuals may understand that it is very dangerous and destructive to smoke but know that if they do not participate, they will be ostracized from the group. I have come to the realization that these underage smokers are around the substance so often that they begin to forget that others are bothered by it's cancer causing toxins. I also think that many smokers fail to realize that they have a filter while the rest of the world does not. The cause of this addiction could be linked to early exposer from parents or older friends and/or siblings. It could also be as simple as the primal need to become accepted by others. A suitable approach to dealing with this epidemic is to create an enjoyable and energetic feel for students at school. This would lead to a more pleasant and inclusive feel for everyone. Along with providing nicotine patches such as nicorette to students whom are attending a support group and are working through cold turkey symptoms. To conclude, Underage smoking adversely effects everyone but with a proper approach that includes everyone and provides support for those involved, this health epidemic can be diverted.