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- Title
Are smokers protected against SARS-CoV-2 infection (COVID-19)? The origins of the myth.
- Authors
van Westen-Lagerweij, Naomi A.; Meijer, Eline; Meeuwsen, Elisabeth G.; Chavannes, Niels H.; Willemsen, Marc C.; Croes, Esther A.
- Abstract
A number of recent studies have found low percentages of smokers among COVID-19 patients, causing scientists to conclude that smokers may be protected against SARS-CoV-2 infection. National and international media were interested in this story and we soon began receiving questions about this topic in general practice. In this article, we shed light on the process that resulted in the misinterpretation of observational research by scientists and the media. We also point out the methodological flaws of various studies on which hasty conclusions were based. Finally, we address the role of primary healthcare providers in mitigating the consequences of erroneous claims about a protective effect of smoking.
- Subjects
COVID-19; SARS-CoV-2; MEDICAL personnel; MYTH; INFECTION
- Publication
NPJ Primary Care Respiratory Medicine, 2021, Vol 31, Issue 1, p1
- ISSN
2055-1010
- Publication type
Article
- DOI
10.1038/s41533-021-00223-1