The Bottom Line

• Over one billion people smoke tobacco worldwide. Smoking is a risk factor for cancer, heart disease, respiratory infections and illnesses, stroke, and a reduced lifespan. 
• The World Health Organization lists smoking as a potential risk factor for increasing the transmission of COVID-19, as well as the severity of the complications in those who contract it. More research is needed on both of these areas.  
• The current time is as good as ever to try your hand at quitting! Nicotine replacement therapy, group smoking cessation programs, and telephone support can all increase your chances of successfully quitting.  

If you’re one of the over one billion people worldwide who smoke tobacco, quitting may be on the top of your wish list. There are a variety of strategies that can help you on your path to becoming smoke free.