Tobacco increases risk of various bacterial infections

Tobacco smoke is harmful and can increase the risk of various bacterial infections in the body. Smokers are more likely to get respiratory infections, with studies showing they are 2.5 times more at risk than non-smokers. The use of tobacco significantly weakens the immune system. This makes it harder for the body to fight off infections. Smoking damages the lungs and impairs the body's ability to remove germs. It also causes inflammation and alters the function of immune cells, reducing their effectiveness in fighting bacteria. Cigarette smoke can interfere with the immune response. It lowers the ability of immune cells to engulf and destroy bacteria. Additionally, smoking decreases the production of important immune molecules. Smokers may also have fewer antibodies in their systems, making it even harder to tackle infections. Tobacco use can affect not just respiratory health, but also lead to infections in other parts of the body, such as those causing ulcers or sexually transmitted diseases. Smokers tend to suffer from more severe infections that last longer. This highlights the importance of quitting smoking to reduce the risk of infectious diseases.