National Kick Butts Day is March 20.  Kick Butts is an annual campaign celebration of youth leadership and activism in the fight against tobacco. This year due to COVID-19 restrictions, Kick Butts activities are suspended, however, when restrictions are lifted Kick Butt activities for youth will be begin. 

This year, with the threat of the virus looming, smokers and vapors are at greater risk for poor lung health prognosis following an infection. There is conclusive evidence that smoking increases susceptibility for respiratory infections, weakens the immune system and is a major cause of underlying health conditions that increase risk for COVID-19. Smoking also can cause chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD), other lung diseases, heart disease and diabetes. In addition, vaping can also harm lung health. The National Institute on Drug Abuse, states that “emerging evidence suggests that exposure to aerosols from e-cigarettes harms the cells of the lung and diminishes the ability to respond to infection.” 

For these reasons, there is mounting concern among leading public health organizations and medical experts that people who smoke or vape are at greater risk for serious complications from COVID-19. Adding to these concerns is the fact that youth e-cigarette use remains at epidemic levels in the U.S. 3.6 million U.S. kids use e-cigarettes, including 1 in five high school students (19.6%).

Awareness of ceasing the use of Tobacco and Vaping in the young population is so important!   America’s youth can raise awareness about the tobacco/vaping problem, encourage peers to be tobacco-free and support effective solutions to reduce tobacco use.  For more information please visit, https://www.tobaccofreekids.org/problem/covid-19/resources. 

If any questions, please contact Preventative Medicine, Aleisha Manson, RN, Army Public Health Nurse at aleisha.k.manson.civ@mail.mil or speak with Primary Care Manager.