In this research study, Gervais and colleagues describe the
sequence and timing of 12 milestones (6 related to cigarette use
and 6 to symptoms of nicotine dependence) among grade 7
students. They found that symptoms of nicotine dependence can
take hold long before regular smoking, even after the first puff
in some cases. This information needs to be incorporated into
intervention programs aimed at young smokers. In a related
commentary, Klein discusses the challenges in helping young
smokers quit and the need for stronger public health efforts to
keep youth from starting in the first place. p. 255 Milestones
in the natural course of onset of cigarette use among
adolescents -- A. Gervais et al Adolescents and smoking: The
first puff may be the worst -- J.D. Klein Last reviewed: By John
M. Grohol, Psy.D. on 21 Feb 2009 Published on PsychCentral.com.
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