The physical health of people with severe mental illness (SMI) is poor. Smoking-related illnesses are a major contributor to excess mortality and morbidity. An up-to-date review of the evidence for smoking cessation interventions in SMI is needed to inform clinical guidelines.

To this end British researchers searched bibliographic databases for relevant studies and independently extracted data, including eight randomized controlled trials of pharmacological and/or psychological interventions. It was concluded that treating tobacco dependence is effective in patients with SMI. Treatments that work in the general population also work for those with severe mental illness and appear approximately equally effective. And treating tobacco dependence in patients with stable psychiatric conditions did not worsen their mental state.

For more information:
http://lancashirecare.wordpress.com/2010/06/14/smoking-cessation-in-severe-mental-illness-what-works/