Nicotine rapidly reaches the brain, creates dependence through dopamine-driven reinforcement, and harms multiple organs. Health improves within minutes to years after quitting; behavioral strategies plus FDA-approved aids raise your chances of success.
Smokeless tobacco (chew, dip, snuff) damages gums, teeth, and raises oral cancer risk. It contains nicotine and toxins and is not a safe alternative to smoking. Quitting reduces harm; ask a clinician or use national quit resources.
Starting nicotine use in your teens greatly increases the chance of long-term addiction and health harm. The adolescent brain is more vulnerable to nicotine, social pressures make experimentation appealing, and once dependence sets in it reshapes daily life. Avoiding cigarettes and vaping in adolescence gives you the best chance of not becoming a lifelong smoker.