Young people might be drawn to smoking because they think that it will make them look cool, appear older, lose weight, seem tough or feel independent.

• • Smoking slows lung growth, decreases lung function and reduces the oxygen available for muscles used in sports.
  • Smokers are more likely to suffer from shortness of breath more often than non-smokers.
  • Nicotine is highly addictive.

Young people who do not start using tobacco by age 18 are less likely to start.