Every year, tobacco use is responsible for more than 8 million deaths worldwide, with 1.2 million of those deaths affecting non-smokers exposed to second-hand smoke. As an infectious disease that primarily attacks the lungs, COVID-19 presents a unique and serious threat to anyone whose respiratory system is already compromised.
Now, the connection is clearer than ever. In a formal review of available studies, public health experts convened by the World Health Organization (WHO) found that smokers are more likely to develop severe disease with COVID-19 compared to non-smokers. This is because smoking is a known risk factor for many respiratory infections, impairing lung function and increasing the severity of respiratory diseases in general.
What This Means for Patients and Providers
This finding underscores the critical importance of proactive health management. For individuals who smoke, there has never been a more urgent time to consider quitting. Reducing this key risk factor can improve your body's ability to fight off respiratory infections and enhance your overall long-term health.
At Medicup, we believe that managing your health shouldn't wait. Our digital platform provides a direct, accessible bridge between patients and healthcare providers. If you're a smoker, you can connect with a doctor via telehealth to discuss personalized smoking cessation strategies, get support, and receive prescriptions for cessation aids without leaving your home. For providers, our EMR system can help identify at-risk patients, enabling you to proactively offer guidance and support to those who need it most during this critical time.
Taking control of your health by quitting smoking is one of the most powerful steps you can take to protect yourself. Let digital health tools be your ally in that journey.
Source: World Health Organization