(NC)—With November being Lung Cancer Awareness Month, there's no better time to talk to your kids about the risks of smoking. Teen smoking might begin innocently, but it can become a long-term problem. In fact, most adult smokers begin as teenagers. To stop your teen from taking the first puff, follow these five tips offered by Mayo Clinic:

1. Understand the attraction

Teen smoking can be a form of rebellion or a way to fit in with a particular group of friends. Some teens light up in an attempt to lose weight or to feel better about themselves. Others smoke to feel cool or independent. Ask your teen how he or she feels about smoking.

2. Set a good example

Teen smoking is more common among teens whose parents smoke. If you are a smoker, the earlier you stop smoking, the less likely your teen is to become a smoker. Ask your doctor about ways to stop smoking. In the meantime, explain how unhappy you are with your smoking, how difficult it is to quit and that you'll keep trying until you stop smoking for good.

3. Do the math

Smoking is expensive. Help your teen calculate the weekly, monthly or yearly cost of smoking a pack a day. You might compare the cost of smoking with that of electronic gadgets, clothes or other teen essentials.

4. Take addiction seriously

Most teens believe they can stop smoking anytime they want. Teens, however, become just as addicted to tobacco as do adults—often quickly and at relatively low doses of nicotine. Once you're hooked, it's tough to quit.

5. Predict the future

Teens tend to assume that bad things only happen to other people. Explain the potential long-term consequences of smoking—such as cancer, heart attack and stroke. Use loved ones, friends, neighbours or celebrities who've been affected by smoking as real-life examples.

6. Get involved

Take an active stance against teen smoking. Participate in local and school-sponsored anti-smoking campaigns. Support efforts to make public places smoke-free and increase taxes on tobacco products, which can help reduce the odds that your teen will become a smoker.

If your teen has already started smoking, avoid threats and ultimatums. Instead, find out why your teen is smoking—and discuss ways to help your teen quit. Avoiding or stopping smoking is one of the best things your teen can do for a lifetime of good health.

For more health-related information visit www.mayoclinic.org/canada.