Pattern of smoking and nicotine dependence in patients with psychiatric disorders

Smoking prevalence is high among psychiatric patients. This study aimed to evaluate the prevalence of smoking, related factors and nicotine dependence in patients suffering from psychiatric disorders.

This analytical descriptive study was performed on patients who had been hospitalized for at least 2 days in Razi Hospital during 2010. Data were collected via an interview and the obtained information was recorded in a questionnaire. Fagerstrom test was also used. After determining the prevalence of smoking in these patients, the related factors and nicotine dependence were also evaluated using multiple logistic regression test and SPSS software.

A total of 78.4% of men and 36.2% of women in this study were smokers and 64.4% had high nicotine dependence. Final logistic regression models showed that smoking was related with advanced age, male sexuality, hookah consumption, and depression. High nicotine dependence was correlated with hookah consumption and history of suicide attempt.

Prevalence of smoking is higher among psychiatric patients compared to the public. Adequate intervention and strategies are necessary in these patients to promote smoking cessation.