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A new study reveals that smokers are more likely to develop active tuberculosis than those who have never smoked. Experts prompt for policymakers to be tougher on smoking and smokers.
Current smokers are even twice as likely to suffer from the diseases than those who avoid smoking, claims Hsien-Ho Lin from Brigham and Women's Hospital in Boston. Because of the fact that one in three people is infected with TB, some people could develop active tuberculosis. However, only 10 percent falls sick, these are most usually smokers whose immune systems are weak.
17,699 participants took part in the study, 3,893 were smokers, 552 - former smokers and 13,254 have never smoked. During the study 57 people started to suffer from tuberculosis. The highest risk of active TB was seen in smokers even though there were certain factors taken into consideration such as sex, age, income, marital status, alcohol use or employment.
This is because smokers have weak immune system which can't beat bacteria and viruses effectively. This means that quitting smoking can be crucial for successful fight against TB.
Added by:
mary
not connected with health care system
Added on:
2009-08-25 11:52:09 ,
Updated:
2009-08-25 11:53:45
Bibliography:
www.reuters.com
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2008-06-16 09:56:33
