Everyone knows that smoking is bad for you, so why do people do it? Most people, regardless of their sexual orientation or gender identity, start smoking (or chewing or dipping) as teenagers. Smoking can feel adventurous and it can make it feel easier to fit in.

Usually people keep smoking because they're addicted.

For GLBT youth, fitting in can be a precious thing. Lots of GLBT youth feel isolated and lonely, at least until they find a group of GLBT-supportive peers. When they do, if smoking is the ticket to belonging, it may feel like a small price to pay.

The problem is that the price is high--you just pay it years down the road.

GLBT youth may have grown up believing - even though it isn't true -- that all GLBT people, especially men, will die of AIDS, anyway. If you don't think you will live long enough to get lung cancer or heart disease, smoking may not seem like a big deal.

GLBT youth may also have grown up believing - even though it isn't true - that their lives are worthless to begin with. If you don't feel like your life will amount to much, smoking probably won't seem like much of a risk.

What GLBT youth need to know is:

• The huge majority of GLBT people don't get HIV and they live long lives. Those who do get HIV often want their immune systems to be as free of tobacco and other drugs as possible.
• Your life is worth a lot. If you feel bad, you are not alone. People want to help you.
• You can find a circle of friends who care about you, and smoking is not the only ticket to belonging.
• Increasing numbers of people, both gay and straight, find smoking unattractive and appealing.