“Smokers at greater risk of severe respiratory disease from COVID-19”

There has never been a more important time to stop smoking

Many of us turn to old habits in times of uncertainty and stress, but as new information emerges about COVID-19, it becomes even more vital that that you ensure smoking is not one of them.

Emerging evidence from China shows that if you smoke with COVID-19, you are 14 times more likely to develop severe respiratory disease. Not only that, but secondhand smoke increases the risk for those around you, including children.

Studies have also shown that the repetitive hand to mouth movement of smoking provides an easy route of entry for the virus, putting smokers at greater risk of contracting COVID-19.

Whilst this is concerning it is important not to panic. It is never too late to quit, no matter your age and once you have quit there are very real health benefits with the body continuing to repair the longer you stay smokefree. The more immediate benefits include:

• after 48 hours carbon monoxide is eliminated from the body. Lungs start to clear out mucus and other smoking debris
• after 72 hours breathing becomes easier as bronchial tubes begin to relax
• after 2 to 12 weeks blood circulation improves, making physical activity like walking and running easier

What next?

You are three times more likely to successfully quit smoking with support than by going it alone. It all starts with a quick chat with our professional, friendly, non-judgmental team who have over 70 years combined experience in helping smokers to quit.  We can also help you access a range of different medications to help beat cravings.

Call us today on 0800 013 0553

Ruth Dean

April 2020