Hola Familia! Do you have a friend and/or a family member that has been trying to quit smoking, but doesn't know where to find resources. Well today, I will be sharing why it's important to quit smoking during the COVID-19 outbreak as well as connecting you to some great resources.

According to a most recent article published by Tanya Lewis, she states, "cigarette smoke and vaping aerosol are linked to lung inflammation and lowered immune function.  And it could make you more vulnerable to a severe infection with the novel coronavirus, some experts say." (read full article here)

As per diem a smoking cessation facilitator, I would like to say, cigarette smoking and vaping can actually suppress the immune system and function of the lungs. Which is why cigarette smokers experience pulmonary chronic conditions such as Bronchitis, Emphysema, COPD, Pneumonia and/or lungs collapsing, cardiovascular disease, cancer, mental health and much more. These conditions are developed over time as one continues to smoke, but some early symptoms smokers can experience is fatigue, shortness of breath, coughing, wheezing and tightness in the chest. With such high risk already due to the nicotine and toxic chemicals, smokers can possibly be at higher risk to be immune compromised. Which is why it's important to quit smoking!