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Nicotine and the Teen Brain Doctors are particularly concerned about nicotine being used by young people. Although the law declares that we are “adults” as soon as we turn 18, the human body doesn’t actually play by those rules. Our brains continue to develop well into our 20s. The last part of the brain to completely mature is the prefrontal cortex, which is in charge of complex tasks such as decision making, self-control, and social interactions. The unfinished nature of the teen brain is one reason why teens are more prone to risk-taking than adults.

Teens are even more susceptible to nicotine than adults, due to how the brain develops.

Teen Guides to Health & Wellness: Smoking and Vaping

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