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Editor:

In this difficult and challenging time dealing with the coronavirus, there has never been a better time for smokers to quit and for people to protect their health by avoiding use of all tobacco products, including e-cigarettes.

Scientists have noted that the coronavirus (COVID-19) attacks the lungs. Behaviors that weaken the lungs put people at more risk.

Matthew Myers, president of Campaign for Tobacco-Free Kids, notes that “we all know the impact of smoking on the lungs. There is conclusive evidence that smoking increases the risk for respiratory infections, weakens the immune system and is a major cause of a number of chronic health conditions, including chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD), heart disease and diabetes. More recently, the science community has a growing body of evidence showing that vaping can also harm lung health.”

Dr. Nora Volkow, director of the National Institute on Drug Abuse, wrote in a recent blog post:

“Because it attacks the lungs, the coronavirus that causes COVID-19 could be an especially serious threat to those who smoke tobacco or marijuana or who vape.

“It is therefore reasonable to be concerned that compromised lung function or lung disease related to smoking history, such as COPD,” she said, “could put people at risk for serious complications of COVID-19.

“Vaping, like smoking,” Volkow added, “may also harm lung health. Whether it can lead to COPD is still unknown, but emerging evidence suggests that exposure to aerosols from e-cigarettes harms the cells of the lung and diminishes the ability to respond to infection.” 

We are very fortunate that Montana has a free Tobacco Quit Line that provides phone coaching to those wanting to quit, at a socially acceptable distance – over the phone. Adults can enroll in the very effective program by calling 1-800-QUIT-NOW. Youth under 18 can also take part in a specialized and confidential program geared just for them, at MyLifeMyQuit.com.

The health of our lungs has never been more important. Please take advantage of these free and valuable programs today.

Sandra Gubel,

Sanders County Tobacco Prevention Specialist