Investigating smoking and nicotine dependence among people with severe mental illness during the COVID-19 pandemic: analysis of linked data from a UK Closing the Gap cohort

• DOI: 10.1192/bjo.2021.45
• Publication Date: 2021-04-23T07:57:25Z
• Authors: Emily Peckham; Victoria Allgar; Suzanne Crosland; Paul Heron; Gordon Johnston; Elizabeth Newbronner; Elena Ratschen; Panagiotis Spanakis; Ruth Wadman; Lauren Walker; Simon Gilbody
• Keywords: Pandemic; Nicotine dependence

Smoking rates are higher for people who use mental health services, which contributes substantially to inequalities. can lead worse COVID-19 outcomes, yet it remains unclear whether smoking has changed services. We examined patterns in a large clinical cohort of with severe illness, before and during the pandemic. found high levels nicotine dependence heavier smoking. Although some had reported quitting, is likely that inequalities have become further entrenched. Mental services should seek mitigate this modifiable risk source poor health.