The Particulars: Previous research suggests that as many as 70% of patients with HIV smoke cigarettes, but no nationally representative prevalence estimates are available.

Data Breakdown: Using 2009 data from a nationally representative sample of 4,217 adults with HIV, researchers estimated the prevalence of cigarette smoking. Of respondents with HIV in care, 42.4% were current cigarette smokers, 20.3% were former smokers, and 37.3% never smoked. In comparison, current cigarette smoking had a prevalence of 20.6% in the general population in 2009.

Take Home Pearls: Current cigarette smoking prevalence among patients with HIV appears to be twice the national average. The study authors recommend that smoking cessation be a priority in patients with HIV, after treatment for HIV.