Are some children and adolescents in Louisiana addicted to tobacco? the Bogalusa Heart Study
Hunter, S.M.; Webber, L.S.; Elkasabany, A.; Berenson, G.S.
Journal of the Louisiana State Medical Society Official Organ of the Louisiana State Medical Society 151(4): 177-181
1999
ISSN/ISBN: 0024-6921 PMID: 10234892 Document Number: 504347
The US Surgeon General concluded that nicotine in tobacco is addictive. Few studies actually explore the nature of nicotine addiction in youth. In Bogalusa, Louisiana, surveys to assess tobacco usage were administered to 11-18 year olds according to a standardized protocol developed in 1976. In 1991-92, a special substudy explored the nature of nicotine addiction in youth. Overall, 14.7% were current cigarette smokers; however, as many as 44.3% of white females, ages 15-16, indicated they were current smokers. Twelve percent of the surveyed population purchased single cigarettes. Thirty-two percent of current smokers reported they smoke a cigarette within 30 minutes after waking up. Thirty-one percent said they would find it difficult to refrain from smoking in places where it is forbidden. And 23% said they continue to smoke cigarettes when they are ill. From the findings in this study, it is clear there are young people who are addicted to tobacco. It is important to develop prevention of tobacco usage in childhood. Those who are addicted require a carefully developed intervention program to assist them with their cessation efforts.