DHEC offers free smoking cessation services, research shows smokers are at risk of complications from COVID-19

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Those most at risk for developing complications of the new coronavirus include anyone with an underlying health condition, and smoking falls in that realm.

Research indicates those who smoke may experience more severe complications of COVID-19. No matter what stage of the quitting process a person is in, the S.C. Department of Health and Environmental Control's S.C. Tobacco Quitline is available.

Its smoking cessation services can be accessed by phone or online, allowing people to safely remain home during this pandemic while accessing vital services.

"The immune system is the body's way of protecting us from infections and disease, so it's critical to keep it functioning at its best right now," said Virginie Daguise, a doctor and DHEC's director of the Bureau of Chronic Disease and Injury Prevention. "Smoking harms the immune system, which is why free quitting services like the S.C. Tobacco Quitline are so important. Recent findings from the CDC show that smoking can increase the risk for more severe illness from COVID-19."

The quitline provides free one-on-one telephone coaching and web-based and text message support 24/7. It can help people develop personalized quit plans, and free nicotine replacement therapy such as patches, gum and lozenges are available to callers.

"Most smokers want to quit, and our goal is to provide free help in a way that best meets their needs," Daguise said. "The minute you quit smoking, you improve your body's ability to heal itself."

Smoking inflames the lungs. Even one or two cigarettes can cause irritation or coughing. When you quit smoking, the inflammation in the airways begins to go down, and your lungs can start the recovery process.

Other ways to strengthen the immune system include:

- Getting proper sleep;

- Maintaining a healthy weight;

- Drinking plenty of fluids;

- Reducing stress;

- Being physically active;

- Eating fruits and vegetables; and

- Avoiding or limiting alcohol.

For more information and resources, visit www.scdhec.gov/quitforkeeps, or call the S.C. Tobacco Quitline at 1-800-QUIT-NOW (1-800-784-8669).