Amygdala volume mediates the relationship between externalizing symptoms and daily smoking in adolescence: A prospective study

Despite decreasing in prevalence in recent years, adolescent smoking remains a significant public health concern. It has been estimated that approximately one-third of adolescents who initiate tobacco use between the ages of 13 –17 become daily smokers (Dierker et al., 2012), with an earlier onset of regular use increasing the risk of heavier and more persistent smoking in adulthood (Breslau and Peterson, 1996; Chassin et al., 2000; Chassin et al., 1990). Adolescent smoking has also been associated with the developme nt of future psychopathology, particularly alcohol and other substance use disorders, major depressive disorder, and disruptive behavior disorders (Upadhyaya et al., 2002).
Source: Psychiatry Research: Neuroimaging - Category: Psychiatry Authors: Source Type: research