HHS HealthBeat (October 01, 2007)

Teens who start to smoke

Researcher Joseph DiFranza of the University of Massachusetts Medical School says the relaxation may be due to brain chemistry, and could be a sign of addiction.

"The brain reacts immediately. Changes occur within the nerves in the brain. And we believe that these changes that occur with the first cigarette are the beginnings of addiction." (9 seconds)

Last revised: May, 26 2008