Uvc lifestyle series#

“We found a strong correlation between social and psychological stressors and increased susceptibility.”

“In our work, we intentionally exposed people to cold and influenza viruses and studied whether psychological and social factors predict how effective the immune system is in suppressing infection, or preventing or mitigating the severity of illness,” said Cohen. This work focused on eight viral strains that cause the common cold and two that cause influenza.

Uvc lifestyle series#

Through a series of studies spanning more than 30 years, Cohen and his team examined how lifestyle, social, and psychological factors affect whether or not healthy adults exposed to respiratory viruses become ill. “Our research on psychological factors that predict susceptibility to other respiratory viruses may provide clues to help identify factors that matter for COVID-19.” “We know little about why some of the people exposed to the coronavirus that causes COVID-19 are more likely to develop the disease than others,” said Sheldon Cohen, a professor of psychology at Carnegie Mellon University and one of the authors on the paper. A growing body of research reveals that these risk factors and a lack of supportive social connections can also increase the risk of developing respiratory infections, like the common cold and influenza.Ī new article published in the journal Perspectives on Psychological Science explores how lifestyle, social, and psychological factors also may increase the risk of contracting COVID-19. Unhealthy lifestyle choices, like smoking and avoiding exercise, are known risk factors for certain cancers and cardiovascular disease.

It is possible these same factors also increase the risk of contracting COVID-19. Summary: Current research indicates that a variety of behavioral factors, such as tobacco use, exercise habits, and quality of interpersonal relationships influence people’s risk of developing upper respiratory infections.