A recent study published in the journal Nature sheds light on the long-term impacts of smoking cigarettes on the immune system. The study reveals how smoking tobacco can significantly alter a person's immune response, making it harder for the body to fight off infections both immediately and over time. In addition, smoking increases the risk of developing chronic diseases such as rheumatoid arthritis and lupus.
Researchers monitored blood samples from 1,000 healthy individuals aged 20 to 69 to investigate how various factors, including lifestyle, genetics, and infection, affect immune response. The study found that smoking, body mass index, and latent infections like the herpes virus had the most significant impact on the immune system.
Study coauthor Dr. Violaine Saint-André emphasizes the importance of quitting smoking to maintain long-term immunity. Their research shows that even when smokers quit, their immune systems improve, although it may take years to fully recover. The study highlights the critical message, especially to the youth, to never start smoking to protect their long-term health.
Cigarette smoking remains the leading cause of preventable disease and death in the United States, according to the CDC. More than 480,000 Americans die each year due to smoking-related illnesses, with an estimated 11.5% of adults being cigarette smokers in 2021. The study's findings underscore the urgent need to address smoking cessation and promote healthier lifestyle choices to safeguard individuals' immune systems and overall well-being.
