“`html
Long COVID Symptoms linked to Tobacco Use,Japanese Study Finds
Dateline: Tokyo,Japan – May 16,2024
A recent study conducted in Japan has revealed a connection between tobacco use and teh prevalence and nature of long COVID symptoms. The research, involving over 4,000 participants, indicates that individuals who currently smoke combustible cigarettes, use heated tobacco products, or use both may experience different long COVID symptom profiles.
- The study included over 4,000 participants.
- Dual use of combustible cigarettes and heated tobacco products was associated with a higher prevalence of certain long COVID symptoms.
- Symptoms like fatigue and shortness of breath were more commonly reported among tobacco users.
- The research highlights the need for tailored support for individuals with long COVID based on their tobacco use history.
Researchers analyzed data from a nationwide survey conducted between August 2022 and December 2023,encompassing 4,033 participants.The study,published recently,categorized participants based on their tobacco use: never smokers,current smokers of combustible cigarettes,current users of heated tobacco products,and those who used both.
Distinct Symptom Patterns Emerge
The analysis revealed that individuals who used both combustible cigarettes and heated tobacco products experienced a significantly higher prevalence of certain long COVID symptoms compared to other groups. Specifically, this dual-use group reported a greater incidence of fatigue, shortness of breath, and a general feeling of malaise. Current smokers of combustible cigarettes also showed a higher likelihood of experiencing post-COVID conditions, but the symptom profile differed somewhat from the dual-use group.
