Addressing smoking cessation in methadone programs.

Little is known about how well methadone programs address smoking cessation. We describe the frequency of smoking cessation counseling, and factors affecting its provision in methadone programs. We conducted a cross-sectional survey of methadone patients and their counselors. Of 575 patients, 76% were eligible smokers. Although only 48% of patients reported receiving smoking cessation counseling within the previous six months, 97% of counselors reported providing it (p < 0.0001). Time with one counselor was significantly associated with patient report of receiving smoking cessation counseling (OR 1.19 [95% CI 1.04-1.36]). Although addiction counseling is required in methadone programs, nicotine addiction is addressed less than half the time. Methadone programs should prioritize the provision of effective smoking cessation and facilitate continuity of patient-counselor relationships. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]