by Paul A. Bunn, Jr., MD, 2002-2003 ASCO President

The most preventable cause of death by disease in the United States is the use of tobacco. Tobacco use accounts for almost one-third of all cancer deaths. As the leading professional society representing more than 25,000 medical professionals who treat people with cancer, the American Society of Clinical Oncology (ASCO) strongly advises that the best way to reduce the incidence of cancer is to prevent people — particularly children — from using tobacco products.

Statistics show that adolescents are the only population that continues to begin smoking in substantial numbers. According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), every day approximately 4,000 youths between the ages of 12 and 17 in the United States try their first cigarette, and an estimated 1,140 become regular, daily smokers. In 2005, the CDC also found that 23% of high school students reported current cigarette use. The U.S. Department of Health and Human Services has concluded that 90% of all adult smokers began smoking while in their teens, and nearly two-thirds become regular, daily smokers before they reach the age of 19.

Perhaps more alarmingly, studies indicate that women who begin smoking during adolescence are 70% more likely to develop breast cancer before age 50. Scientists have found teen smoking exponentially increases breast cancer risk because breast cells are more susceptible to cancer-causing agents due to the dramatic biologic changes during adolescence. Research has found that women are particularly susceptible to advertising campaigns that describe cigarettes as "slims" or "thins." Fears about gaining weight while trying to quit may make women and girls more reluctant to quit smoking. In addition, the number of new cases of lung cancer and lung cancer deaths are increasing in women, and it is estimated that almost twice as many women will die from lung cancer every than from breast cancer.

In addition to being responsible for 87% of lung and 85% of head and neck cancers, long-term smoking that begins before age 30 also increases the risk of developing colorectal cancer. Smokers are also up to seven times more likely to develop bladder cancer than non-smokers. Smoking is associated with cancers of the pancreas, uterus, cervix, kidney, skin, and breast, as well as heart disease, gastric ulcers, chronic bronchitis, emphysema, and cerebrovascular disease, such as stroke.

Here's what you can do to discourage kids from smoking:

• Be a positive role model — don't smoke.
  
  
• Talk with your child about the devastating effects of tobacco. Your opinion matters to them and will help them resist pressure from advertising and peers.
  
  
• Encourage your child to lead active, healthy lifestyles starting at a young age.

Studies consistently demonstrate that if people do not start smoking as children or teenagers, it is unlikely they ever will. Smoking prevention is our most effective defense against cancer — for the health of our nation and the future of our children.

Additional Resources

Centers for Disease Control and Prevention: Youth and Tobacco Use: Current Estimates

Kick Butts Day

Campaign for Tobacco-Free Kids

KidsBeforeProfits.org

More Information

Tobacco