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International Journal of Virus Studies Review Article

Tobacco and COVID-19: Molecular Interactions and Public Health Challenges – A Review

  1. Chetan Vinay Deshmukh Public Health Dentistry, Nair Hospital Dental College, Mumbai
  2. Vibhuti Dilip Mistry Periodontology and Oral Implantology, JMF’s ACPM Dental College, Dhule
  3. Arun Suresh Dodamani Public Health Dentistry, JMF’s ACPM Dental College, Dhule
  4. Mayuri Bhikaji Nepale Gastroenterology, Abbot India Ltd., Mumbai

Abstract

Tobacco use exacerbates health risks, making it a significant concern during the COVID-19 pandemic. Smoking has been implicated in the upregulation of ACE2 receptors, critical for SARS- CoV-2 entry, and contributes to immune dysregulation and oxidative stress, worsening clinical outcomes.

Methods: This review synthesizes evidence on the molecular mechanisms linking tobacco and COVID-19, assesses risk factors, such as smoking status and comorbidities, and explores public health challenges in managing the dual burden of tobacco use and the pandemic.

Results: Tobacco-induced ACE2 receptor up-regulation, impaired immune response, and oxidative stress exacerbate COVID-19 severity. Smokers exhibit higher rates of ICU admission, ARDS, and mortality. Public health challenges include disruptions in tobacco cessation efforts, with increased stress-related smoking and limited access to cessation programs during lockdowns.

Discussion: The findings underscore the need for robust tobacco control policies integrated with COVID-19 management. Tailored cessation programs and strengthened regulations on tobacco marketing can mitigate risks.

Conclusion: Tobacco cessation is crucial to reducing COVID-19 severity and strengthening public health resilience against future pandemics. Comprehensive policies and continued research are vital in addressing the combined burden of tobacco and infectious diseases.

Keywords

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