WSHS Prisons & Smoking

Researchers Investigate Prisoner Smoking Cessation

TTURC researchers investigated whether smokers who are forced to quit while serving time in Wisconsin’s smoke-free prisons actually remained non-smokers after their release into the community.

Fifty male prisoners who served time at Oakhill Correctional Facility, a minimum security prison, were interviewed before and after their release. Researchers investigated smoking intention, relapse and predictors.

The team’s research, funded by a TTURC pilot grant, was conducted by primary investigator Dr. James Sosman, associate professor of medicine, as well as co-investigators Doug Jorenby, Laura Thibodeau, and consultant David Seal.

Results:

Prerelease Intent Predicts Smoking Behavior Postrelease Following a Prison Smoking Ban