Smoking

Women and girls smoke for different reasons. Some women smoke to deal with stress or control weight. Younger women and girls may start smoking as a way of rebelling, being independent, or fitting in with their peers. Tobacco companies use research on how women and girls feel about themselves to influence women and girls to smoke. But there is never a good reason to smoke, and it's best to never start. There are, though, many good reasons to quit smoking. When you quit, your health and quality of life will improve. You also will help safeguard the health of those you live with by not exposing them to second-hand smoke (the smoke released from a lit cigarette or cigar).

When you quit:

• Your chances of getting sick from smoking will be less.
• You will have more energy and breathe easier.
• If you are pregnant, your baby will get more oxygen and be healthier.
• Your children and other people in your home will be healthier. Second-hand smoke can cause asthma and other health problems.
• You will have more money to spend on other things.