The study shows mental health conditions are also associated with smoking.
Patients in underserved communities smoke at a rate double that of the general U.S. population, according to a new study published by the American Cancer Society.
Smoking also is linked with mental health conditions such as depression and anxiety, and with substance abuse disorders, in underserved communities, a news release said.
As rates of smoking and smoking related cancers decline in the United States, people at higher risk for cigarette use and nicotine addiction could gain significant benefits from tobacco prevention and cessation programs, the news release said.
The study analyzed results from the 2014 Health Center Patient Survey of adult patients who received primary care at federally qualified health centers. Those centers serve individuals and families from underserved communities, such as the homeless, agricultural workers and residents of public housing.
The study also examined associations of smoking with co-occurring mental health conditions and substance use disorders, the news release said.
Major findings included:
“Our study underscores the importance of understanding the association and increased risk of mental health conditions and substance use disorders among adults from underserved communities who smoke while also addressing socioeconomic risk factors to achieve better health outcomes,” co-author Sue C. Lin, PhD, of the Health Resources and Services Administration of the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services said in the news release. “The study further highlights the significance of tailored smoking cessation treatments for individuals from underserved communities that will support cancer prevention care.”
This article originally appeared on Medical Economics®.
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