Smoking during addiction treatment: a growing problem

stimulants or opioids as their primary drug than for those reporting alcohol as primary, which emphasized the need for targeted efforts against smoking in addiction treatment centers.  

“Clients in substance use disorders treatment were more likely to quit smoking if it was part of their individualized treatment plan is important,” Campbell said. “It supports the idea that individualized attention to patient and patient-identified problems may improve treatment outcomes.”

Her team concluded that high smoking rates among patients receiving addiction treatment are linked to everyday exposure and high receptiveness to tobacco ads and lower perception of health risks related to smoking.

The researchers also urged organizations responsible for tobacco control efforts target vulnerable populations such as individuals with substance use disorders.

“There are certain populations, such as those with other addictions, who still smoke at high rates and for whom smoking remains a serious problem, contributing to large health disparities,” Campbell added. “People in these groups often want to quit smoking but face many barriers to doing so. Incorporating smoking cessation interventions into drug treatment is an important step.”