Active engagement a key in getting younger smokers to quit
According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) approximately 3,450 youth between the ages of 12 and 17 initiate smoking [CDC Youth and Tobacco].(1) In 2009, an average of 17.2% of high school students identified themselves as regular smokers. Though most think they can quit using smoked or smokeless tobacco, many find that quitting is much more difficult than they thought.
Whatever form of tobacco, the neurons in the brain are changed when exposed to nicotine, a highly addictive drug that can readily lead to nicotine dependence, which is a recognized chronic relapsing disease.(2) The level and frequency of exposure, the greater the likelihood nicotine dependence will occur. Though teens may be aware of the dangers of tobacco use through school programs, they are sure nothing will happen to them! As oral health professionals, we have a unique opportunity to see healthy, active youth on a regular basis. We often have a rapport already established with them as they enter tweens and young adulthood. The dental appointment is a perfect time to explore tobacco use. We could ask, “I would like to up-date your health history, could I ask about any tobacco use?” This non-threatening, open-ended question gives the patient an opportunity to respond openly. If the youth indicates no tobacco use, then reinforce a good choice by saying: “That’s great! Great choice!”
1. www.cdc.gov/tobacco/youth/index.htm.2. Srivatsan, M., Treece, J. and Shotts, E. E. (2006), Nicotine Alters Nicotinic Receptor Subunit Levels Differently in Developing Mammalian Sympathetic Neurons. Annals of the New York Academy of Sciences, 1074: 505–513. doi: 10.1196/annals.1369.051. 3. www.nlm.nih.gov/medlineplus/ency/article/003047.htm. 4. www.cdc.gov/tobacco/quit_smoking/cessation/youth_tobacco_cessation/index.htm.
