GFN.TV Interviews #92 | OVERLOOKED RISK | Smoking’s Toll Among People Who Use Drugs
July 24, 2026 by gfn.tv
GFN.TV Interviews #92 | OVERLOOKED RISK | Smoking’s Toll Among People Who Use Drugs
Smoking among people who use drugs, such as heroin users in England, contributes significantly to premature deaths. Despite this, smoking is often overlooked in drug treatment services. David MacKintosh from the Global State of Tobacco Harm Reduction suggests incorporating safer nicotine options to improve health outcomes and longevity. Drug service providers face challenges in addressing smoking alongside drug issues due to resource constraints. Encouraging harm reduction services to consider smoking cessation could yield positive results. Smoking-related deaths in this population are comparable to drug-related deaths, highlighting the need for comprehensive support and awareness. The Global Forum on Nicotine fosters discussions on harm reduction approaches with a focus on consumer perspectives.
