Smoking Among Teens Leads to Hearing Problems

Teenagers, who smoke, hear less. Also pregnant mothers who smoke are at risk of their child developing hearing problems later on in life. This has been highlighted in the New Scientist and the findings are based on a study conducted by Leslie Jacobsen of Yale University School of Medicine.

The study, which observed teenagers smoking patterns, found that many teenagers who smoked regularly had mothers who smoked during pregnancy. Brain scans were conducted on teenagers who smoked. Children with more white matter had problems in interpreting sounds. Teenagers exposed to nicotine had more white matter as compared to those who did not. Over- production of white matter was due to acetylcholine, a chemical compound.

Computer tests were given to teenagers aged 13 to 18. They were asked to recognize words, combined with visual image distraction as well as background music. It was noticed that those exposed to smoke had less correct answers as compared to those who were not.

One Response to “Smoking Among Teens Leads to Hearing Problems”

  1. Why do Teenagers Smoke? Says:
    November 17th, 2008 at 4:36 am

    [...] Cigarette smoking is injurious to health; it is a known fact but still people continue smoking. Recent trend shows that smoking is also gaining popularity among teenagers. But the question arises that “Why do teenagers smoke?” There could be many reasons like: [...]

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