1 week ago

Experts Warn Smoking, Alcohol Quietly Damage Young Brains

Young people’s brains are still growing during their teenage years and into early adulthood.

Smoking puts nicotine into the brain, where it can affect attention, learning, impulse control and reward systems.

Alcohol can affect memory, judgment, learning and emotions.

These changes may happen quietly, even when someone feels healthy.

Smoking can also hurt blood vessels and raise the risk of stroke.

Drinking and smoking together can make health risks greater.

People may become dependent and find it hard to stop.

Doctors say not starting is safest, but timely support can help the brain and body recover.

Key facts

Brain development: The brain continues developing through adolescence and into early adulthood, with some experts describing development into the mid-20s.
Nicotine effects: Nicotine can affect attention, learning, memory, impulse control, emotional regulation and reward pathways.
Alcohol effects: Alcohol can affect memory, learning, decision-making, emotional control, sleep and behaviour.
Vascular risk: Smoking can damage blood vessels and reduce oxygen availability, increasing stroke risk over time.
Dependence: Nicotine and alcohol can alter brain chemistry, causing cravings and withdrawal symptoms that make stopping difficult.
Warning signs: Poor concentration, memory difficulties, mood swings and needing larger amounts may indicate growing dependence.
Recommended response: Doctors recommend prevention, open communication, professional help, structured cessation programs and timely medical support.

firstpost.com · 1 week ago