Related Experiment Video
Updated: Aug 8, 2026
08:47
Spectral Confocal Imaging of Fluorescently tagged Nicotinic Receptors in Knock-in Mice with Chronic Nicotine Administration
Published on: February 10, 2012
Prevalence of DSM/ICD-defined nicotine dependence
John R Hughes1, John E Helzer, Sarah A Lindberg
1Department of Psychiatry, The University of Vermont, 38 Fletcher Place, Burlington, VT 05401-1419, USA. john.hughes@uvm.edu
Drug and Alcohol Dependence
|May 18, 2006
Summary
Nicotine dependence is a common mental disorder, affecting about 25% of adults lifetime and 15% currently. Many smokers do not meet diagnostic criteria for nicotine dependence.
Area of Science:
- Public Health
- Psychiatry
- Epidemiology
Background:
- Nicotine dependence is a significant public health concern.
- Understanding its prevalence and diagnostic criteria is crucial for effective interventions.
Purpose of the Study:
- To estimate the lifetime and current prevalence of nicotine dependence in adults.
- To determine the prevalence of individual diagnostic criteria for nicotine dependence.
Main Methods:
- A qualitative review of eleven population-based surveys of adults and two of young adults.
- Systematic computer searches and other methods were employed to locate relevant studies.
Main Results:
- Lifetime nicotine dependence prevalence was approximately 25% in the USA and Germany, with 15% currently dependent.
- Rates were higher in Asian men compared to women (<5%).
- Impaired control over tobacco use was the most common criterion; giving up activities and time spent on nicotine were least common.
Conclusions:
- Nicotine dependence is a prevalent mental disorder.
- Approximately half of current smokers do not meet the diagnostic criteria for nicotine dependence.
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