November 20, Colombo (LNW): A noticeable surge in cigarette use among school-aged children has been observed in recent years, according to Specialist Respiratory Physician Dr Duminda Yasaratne of the Peradeniya Teaching Hospital.
Speaking at a media forum convened by the Health Promotion Bureau, he warned that many youngsters are now picking up their first cigarette as early as 14 or 15, often out of curiosity or peer pressure.
Dr Yasaratne cautioned that taking up the habit at such a formative age dramatically heightens the risk of long-term lung problems, noting that early exposure can predispose teenagers to chronic respiratory conditions later in life.
He added that health professionals are increasingly troubled by the normalisation of smoking within certain youth circles, calling for more targeted awareness campaigns in schools and stronger community involvement to counter the trend.
