Schizophrenia and tobacco smoking have been historically associated.[1][2][3] Smoking is known to harm the health of people with schizophrenia.[1]
Studies across 20 countries showed that people with schizophrenia were much more likely to smoke than those without this diagnosis.[2] For example, in the United States, 90% or more of people with schizophrenia smoked, compared to 20% of the general population in 2006.[4]
It is well established that smoking is more prevalent among people with schizophrenia than the general population as well as those with other psychiatric diagnoses. There is currently no definitive explanation for this difference.[5] Many social, psychological, and biological explanations have been proposed, but today research focuses on neurobiology.[4][5]
One important reason people smoke cigarettes is due to finding it enjoyable.[5] However, increased rates of smoking among people with schizophrenia have a number of serious impacts, including increased rates of mortality, increased risks of suicidal behavior[1] and cardiovascular disease, reduced treatment effectiveness, and greater financial hardship.[4][5][6][7] Studies have also shown that in a male population, having a schizophrenia spectrum disorder makes it likely for people to use more tobacco.[8] As a result, researchers believe it is important for mental health professionals to combat smoking among people with schizophrenia.[1][4][5]
^ abDe Leon, J; Diaz, FJ (2005). "A meta-analysis of worldwide studies demonstrates an association between schizophrenia and tobacco smoking behaviors". Schizophrenia Research. 76 (2–3): 135–57. doi:10.1016/j.schres.2005.02.010. PMID15949648. S2CID32975940.
^ abcdeMcCloughen, A (2003). "The association between schizophrenia and cigarette smoking: a review of the literature and implications for mental health nursing practice". International Journal of Mental Health Nursing. 12 (2): 119–29. doi:10.1046/j.1440-0979.2003.00278.x. PMID12956023.