Half of smokers have considered giving up completely due to the global coronavirus pandemic, a study has suggested. Research from independent pharmacy chain Well Pharmacy found 49% of smokers had pondered quitting as a result of the outbreak - although a further 60% admitted carrying on with their habit despite knowing smokers have a greater risk of more severe Covid symptoms. The pharmacy group said 18% of smokers surveyed had cut down as they had heard of the greater risks, while 23% were unaware of the increased danger. But 22% admitted they were now smoking up to 20% more than before the pandemic began last year.