Despite all warnings and cautions, a considerable number of teenagers slip into the grip of smoking annually irrespective of reasons galore. According to recent surveys, 80 per cent of the present day smokers got the habit even before attaining the age of 18. It is estimated that one out of five teenage smokers smokes 13-15 cigarettes per day. This is an indication enough to the grim scenario and even a grimmer tomorrow.
What is more, these teenage smokers are no more satisfied with nicotine, they have transcended the boundaries beyond imagination and are now trying the deadly contraband like marijuana, cannabis or for that matter cocaine.
As per Dr. Bhim Sen Bansal, Chairman and Managing Director of RG Stone Urology and laparoscopy Hospital, “Getting on to the habit of smoking in an early age is often attributed to a whole lot of psychological reasons but the problem is also precipitated by the glamorous representation of smoking by the stars on silver screen linking it with machismo. This catches up with the vulnerable psyche of the adolescents for whom the stars on screen play role model. They want to look equally attractive and manly, so tend to copy their mannerism in totality. Besides, for some it could be an exhibition of independence.”
Initially, smoking is started out of curiosity but becomes a habit soon which ultimately climaxes in addiction. Oblivious of the fatal dangers involved besides the ill-effects of smoking, the nascent smokers ignore the statutory warning inscribed on the pack and get exposed to its consequences.
Dr. Bansal says, “Smoking often damages the brain cells resulting in paralysis and strokes. Besides, it also leads to loss of vision, hypertension, nasal stuffiness, nausea, severe pounding headache, slow pulse and excessive sweating in teenage smokers.”
Among all the consequences of smoking, paralysis is the most dangerous one as it leaves the individual crippled for rest of his/her life. In fact, the danger of paralysis is any time higher in a smoker than a non-smoker. Smoking usually contracts the blood vessels and constricts the blood flow, thereby, cutting off the oxygen supply to the brain.
“This situation warrants doctor’s immediate intervention for a smoking cessation plan. It could be difficult to stop smoking at once but of course not as hard as dealing with the complications or the ailments caused by smoking. The only solution left in such a situation is to quit it at any cost.” says Dr. Bansal.