Can Smoking Cause TB?
October 13, 2023 | by Yashaswi Pathakamuri | Posted in FAQ's
No, smoking itself does not directly cause tuberculosis (TB), which is a bacterial infection caused by Mycobacterium tuberculosis. TB is primarily transmitted through the inhalation of respiratory droplets from an infected person who is actively coughing or sneezing.
However, smoking can indirectly increase the risk of developing TB in the following ways:
- Weakened Immune System: Smoking weakens the immune system and impairs the body’s ability to fight infections. People who smoke are more susceptible to infections, including TB.
- Increased Severity: Smokers who contract TB are more likely to develop a more severe and potentially more contagious form of the disease.
- Impaired Ciliary Function: Smoking can impair the function of the cilia, tiny hair-like structures in the respiratory tract that help clear mucus and foreign particles from the lungs. When ciliary function is impaired, it can make it easier for TB bacteria to establish an infection.
- Altered Immune Response: Smoking can change the immune response in the lungs, making it easier for TB bacteria to survive and multiply.
It’s essential to understand that smoking is a major risk factor for respiratory infections, including TB, and it can complicate the treatment and management of TB. If you smoke and have been exposed to TB, it is crucial to seek medical advice and follow appropriate screening and treatment protocols. Quitting smoking is strongly recommended to reduce the risk of developing TB and to support overall respiratory health.