Can smoking make us more susceptible to COVID-19?

Smoking can make people more susceptible to COVID-19 and can also lead to more serious complications of the disease. Here are some reasons why smoking is a risk factor for COVID-19.

Smoking weakens the immune system, making the body less able to fight infections, including viral infections such as COVID-19. Smoking damages the airways and lungs, leading to chronic inflammation and reduced lung function. This makes it harder for the body to fight viruses like SARS-CoV-2, the virus that causes COVID-19.

Studies have shown that smokers may have increased expression of ACE2 receptors in their airways. These receptors are used by SARS-CoV-2 to enter human cells, which can lead to increased susceptibility to infection. Smokers have a higher risk of serious complications from COVID-19, including pneumonia, acute respiratory distress syndrome (ARDS) and need for mechanical ventilation.

Chronic conditions common among smokers, such as chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD) and cardiovascular disease, also increase the risk of serious illness. Smoking can delay healing and make recovery from infections more difficult, which can lead to longer illness and more severe symptoms.

Source: https://www.who.int/publications/i/item/WHO-2019-nCoV-Sci_Brief-Smoking-2020.2

Author: Prof. Dr. Dirk Devroey - Latest update: 2023-12-11 - Copyright: Clinifacts 2024