Study: Alarming rate of diabetic teens use tobacco products

By Staff Writer

Many teens who smoke cigarettes are at risk of developing addictive behaviors such as alcohol and drug abuse. These dangers compound the various health problems that can stem from smoking.

A new study reveals that many adolescents who have diabetes use tobacco products, which can further elevate their chances of acquiring heart disease. The research, which was funded by the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention and the National Institute of Diabetes and Digestive Kidney Diseases, found that 10 percent of youth with type 1 diabetes and 16 percent of teens with type 2 diabetes use some form of tobacco substances, including cigarettes, cigars or smokeless tobacco.

The study was based on a survey of more than 3,466 individuals between the ages 10 and 22. Researchers discovered that less than half of the youth that admitted to tobacco use have been advised by their doctor to stop smoking. Early signs of heart disease were detected among some of the teens who smoked cigarettes.

Due to the already increased risk of cardiovascular disease among people with diabetes, the American Diabetes Association urges that those individuals quit as soon as possible.

Adolescents who smoke cigarettes may benefit from therapeutic boarding schools, which can provide the support needed to help teens quit.