Fast Facts & More

 

Myth

Smoking helps me maintain my weight. I’ll gain weight if I quit!

 

Fact

Weight control is an important issue for youth - especially girls! Some people notice some weight gain when they quit. A slight weight gain is still a smaller health hazard than continuing to smoke. Smoking is not an effective or safe method of weight control. Healthy eating, according to Canada's Food Guide, and regular physical activity will help you achieve and maintain a healthy weight. And remember all bodies come in different shapes and sizes. It's important to feel good about yourself for who you are.

 

Myth

My friends all smoke.

Fact

Some teens think most or all of their friends smoke but the truth is that approximately 87% of Durham Region youth do not smoke!1 However, saying "No" can be very hard.

Myth

Smoking helps me when I’m stressed out!

Fact

Most smokers agree that smoking help them relax but did you know that the chemicals in the cigarette actually make stress worse? It's true, stopping for a smoke break may help you relax but it's actually not the cigarette that's helping you, rather it's the break! Here are some quick ways to deal with stress without the cost or health risk of smoking: go for a walk or run, see a movie with friends, listen to music, talk out your feelings to a friend or someone you trust.

Take our quiz to find out more tobacco use!

References:

1. Canadian Community Health Survey 2005 (+/-7%).