After observing a total of 1,293 Montreal teenagers from ages 12 to 17, and conducting follow-up checks every three months of smoking and lifestyle habits, the experts from the University of Montreal concluded that there were no differences in the girls' weights, or body mass index.
There was, however, a difference in the boys' heights, which appeared to be lower by 2.54 centimeters in average, compared to those who did not smoke.
According to CBC News, lead author Dr. Jennifer O'Loughlin and her team were surprised at the findings, for they themselves believed the myth.
She noted the findings as potential material that may be used to discourage teenagers from smoking.
"Girls might not start smoking if they realize that they will not end up skinnier than girls who don't smoke," said O'Loughlin. "Boys may not start smoking if they think they might end up shorter and smaller overall if they smoke."
O'Loughlin added that it may also be used in the study of smoking's effects on birth weight and later adolescent growth.
The Canadian Press reported that the experiment was funded by the Canadian Cancer Society, and was from the Nicotine Dependence In Teens study.
The findings were published in an issue of the journal Annals of Epidemiology.
