Almost a quarter of smokers in the Netherlands started smoking more during the corona crisis. This says the Trimbos Institute, which has conducted a survey among smokers. It is not surprising that many smokers have started smoking more, because the corona crisis is causing stress for many people, according to the institute.
As of October 1 it will be Stoptober again, the annual promotion whereby smokers are urged not to smoke for at least 28 days. According to the institute, 9 percent of smokers plan to participate in the campaign this year. More than half of these people have become more motivated to quit due to the corona crisis. For example, because they are very concerned about getting the corona virus or passing it on to others.
Smokers have less immune system in their lungs. They are therefore more sensitive to virus infections and therefore probably also to the corona virus. Once infected, smokers are at greater risk of becoming seriously ill. Smokers are also more likely to spread the disease because they cough more.
The month of October has since grown into a major national stopping time. According to the Trimbos Institute, the chance of a successful quitting attempt with Stoptober is five times higher than when smokers try to quit alone. 28 days are also a clear period. It’s short enough to sustain, and long enough to experience the positive effects of quitting and change your behavior.
By: ANP | Photo: ANP
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