Among 136 adults with mental illness and mental retardation who were
consecutively treated at a developmental disabilities clinic, 25 reported
that they currently smoked cigarettes. Among those with mild and borderline
retardation, smoking rates were 30 and 37 percent, respectively. Smokers
were significantly more likely than nonsmokers to drink alcohol, use other
drugs, and be sexually active. Multiple regression analysis found that a
mild or borderline level of retardation and a diagnosis of schizophrenia
were significant predictors of smoking. Mentally retarded persons with
mental illness are at risk of tobacco-related disease and may benefit from
prevention and smoking cessation interventions.
Abstract Teaser