When I hear about the word smoking, the first thing that hits my mind is cancer. Smoking is bad for every one, even those who happen to be near the smokers. It directly affect the lungs and causes lung cancer. Besides it is a cause of mouth cancer, throat, oesophagus, stomach, pancreas and kidneys diseases. Normally smokers are more vulnerable to heart attack compared to non-smokers. The pity is that these days people develop the habit of smoking merely because of peer pressure despite knowing well that smoking causes early death. Smoking has also been found to cause damage to human brain and symptoms are depression, sudden fits of anger and frustration. We must say no to smoking and those who are chain smokers should not feel ashamed of quitting the habit. It is the best gift an individual can give to him/her and family. HASSAN AHMED, Lahore, May 28.