It seems almost counter-intuitive for this to be true but, it appears that smokers are less likely to contract COVID-19.
French researcher hypothesisze that smokers are less likely to contract covid-19 because of the nicotinic acetylcholine receptor (nAChR). According to the study “current smoking status appears to be a protective factor against the infection by SARS-CoV-2. Although the chemistry of tobacco smoke is complex, these data are consistent with the hypothesis that its protective role takes place through direct action on various types of nAChRs expressed in neurons, immune cells (including macrophages), cardiac tissue, lungs, and blood vessels.”
Of course, this is just the hypthesis of a single study and should not be taken as concrete medical advice or findings. However, it is interesting!
Based on the study, we are not advocating for people to start smoking. There are healthier ways to prevent the spread of coronavirus, but for those of us who already smoke cigars (likely everyone reading this), it is slightly good news. If nothing else, the research gave us an excuse to tell ourselves when we buy the best of the best cigars 😉
The study ties nicotine to the reduction of contraction more so than the actual act of smoking. It will be interesting to see if anything else materializes from this study. I wouldn’t count on it. There are a lot of crazier things being studied too and even crazier hypotheses.
Anyway, it makes for a good conversation the next time you’re add a barbecue enjoying cigars with friends.
