Coughs, Colds and More Serious Illnesses

Supporting Information

Children are more likely to get pneumonia and other breathing problems if they live in an environment with smoke.

Exposure to smoke can harm a child, even before birth. Pregnant women should not smoke or be exposed to smoke.

Tobacco use generally begins during adolescence. Adolescents are more likely to start smoking if the adults around them smoke, if tobacco advertising and promotion are common and if tobacco products are cheap and easily accessible. Adolescents should be encouraged to avoid smoking and to caution their friends about its dangers.