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Question
Your uncle has started smoking just to fit in with his friends, even though it is well known that smoking can seriously harm health and even cause death.
(i) What would you say to him to make him stop, without being rude?
(ii) What would you do if your friend offers you a cigarette at a party?
(iii) How can schools help prevent students from indulging in such harmful habits?
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Answer
What smoking does
What you can say instead
Seriously harms health and can even cause death.
“I care about you — I want you around for a long time.”
Tobacco raises the risk of cancer.
“Shall we go for a walk instead when you feel the urge?”
It is a harmful substance, like alcohol and addictive drugs.
“Would you talk to a doctor about stopping?”
Started only to fit in with friends.
If a friend offers a cigarette, say ‘NO’ politely and firmly.
Speak with care about smoking's harms, firmly say no to cigarettes, and let schools teach about the risks.
Explanation
- (i) Tell him gently that you care for him and that smoking harms the lungs and heart, and offer to support him in quitting.
- (ii) Politely but firmly say no, explaining that smoking is harmful, and walk away if needed.
- (iii) Schools can hold awareness talks, posters, and counselling about the dangers of tobacco.
Show care while explaining harms, say a firm no, and let schools raise awareness.
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