In a recent cohort study published in JAMA Network Open, researchers from the United States of America investigated the association between the use of cannabis and tobacco and health outcomes in coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19). They found that smokers and cannabis users showed a greater risk of hospitalization and adverse outcomes in COVID-19 as compared to non-smokers or those not using cannabis, despite controlling for other risk factors. Let’s delve into the details of this study and its implications for public health.
The Study Details
The study included electronic health records (EHR) data from 72,501 patients diagnosed with COVID-19. The primary outcomes were hospitalization, admission to the intensive care unit (ICU), and all-cause mortality. Researchers aimed to evaluate whether substance use, specifically cannabis use and tobacco smoking, is associated with COVID–19–related outcomes. The hypothesis was that both tobacco smoking and cannabis use are linked to worse outcomes following COVID-19 infection.
Cannabis and Tobacco Use Linked to Adverse Outcomes
Despite controlling for other risk factors, the study found that smokers and cannabis users faced a greater risk of hospitalization and adverse outcomes in COVID-19. The association was significant even after adjusting for vaccination status, age, sex, race, ethnicity, and insurance status. These findings highlight the importance of considering substance use as a modifiable risk factor in managing COVID-19 outcomes.
As the pandemic continues, understanding the impact of substance use on COVID-19 outcomes is crucial. Public health efforts should address not only non-modifiable risk factors but also modifiable behaviors like tobacco and cannabis use to improve patient outcomes.
