Scientists have discovered that a single cigarette has a "sleeper effect" that can increase a person's vulnerability for three years or more to becoming a regular smoker.

"But for the first time we've shown that there may be a period of dormancy between trying cigarettes and becoming a regular smoker -- a 'sleeper effect' or vulnerability to nicotine addition," she added.

Of the 260 children...

"The results also indicate that prior experimentation is a strong predictor...

The scientists are not sure why...but they said the exposure to nicotine could change pathways in the brain which could make children more vulnerable to stress or depression, which can make them more likely to try it again.

The first cigarette could also remove fears about getting caught or how to smoke, which would have prevented them from taking up the habit.

"Any research that helps unravel the processes involved in young people becoming addicted to nicotine is key to developing effective and targeted ways to prevent them from starting smoking in the first place," she said.

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I really don't know what to say.

Wait, I do. The inventor(s) of Flarp has contributed more to the world than the "scientists" in the article above.

How many people sit down and analyse the last three years to determine what may have changed their lives? How many would remember a single incident and point to it alone as to a change in the wellbeing? How many people can remember what they ate for dinner three days before?

If children remember this one event and can figure out that their "craving" is from nicotine they should be doing this research into the causes of cancer.

I know some things I have ingested that will cause cravings for it for months. One is Cafe Vienna, one cup will favor every cup of coffee for months after, hence the success of Starbucks. Nothing lives up to the flavor or taste.

But to say that a seven year old will remember the effects of a single puff or cigarette at age 11 is faulty logic at best. How many other new experiences does any child go thru from ages 7 to 11?

Can you remember the flavor of your first cup of Starbuck's coffee?

Can you remember the first time you had a beer?

Can you remember what the effect was the first time you took the first pill of a new perscription?

Can you remember the first time you tasted shrimp or lobster or a filet of beef?

As you addicted to this substance now that you can bring them to mind? Can you even remember when they occured?

Are children using ADD and ADHD drugs addicted to them, or are they taking them because they need them?