Recent evidence on rates and factors influencing smoking behaviours after release from smokefree prisons: a scoping review Journal: International Journal of Prison Health

Citation

Brown A, Kate H, Woods-Brown C & Catherine A (2024) Recent evidence on rates and factors influencing smoking behaviours after release from smokefree prisons: a scoping review Journal: International Journal of Prison Health. International Journal of Prison Health. https://doi.org/10.1108/IJOPH-10-2023-0064

Abstract
Purpose Smokefree prison policies have been introduced in some countries, in part to address very high levels of tobacco use in people in prison. However, relapse rates post-release remain high. Improved understanding of post-release smoking and/or vaping behaviour is necessary to inform support for a priority population. Design We searched health, social science, and criminal justice databases for studies about smoking/vaping behaviours among people released from smokefree prisons. Studies were included if: they reported primary data and were published between January 2017 and March 2024 in English; the population was adults / young people (16yr+) imprisoned, or formerly imprisoned, in prisons with comprehensive smokefree policies; and at least one of the following was reported: (1) pre-release intention to smoke, vape or remain abstinent post-release; (2) smoking/vaping behaviour post-release and factors influencing smoking/vaping behaviour; (3) attempts to quit again following post-release smoking/vaping relapse. Findings: Nine studies met our criteria. The evidence base is small and mainly from the USA or Australia. Evidence continues to suggest that most people resume smoking after leaving a smokefree prison. No new interventions have been successful in reducing relapse rates. No studies report on vaping post-release, although two studies report on perceived factors affecting smoking relapse post-release from prisons allowing vaping. Given very high rates of relapse, there remains a significant need to better understand what approaches are feasible and acceptable for reducing return to smoking post-release. Originality: This review updates the limited evidence on smoking behaviours after leaving a smokefree prison. Research Implications: Given very high rates of relapse there remains a significant need to better understand what approaches are feasible and acceptable for reducing return to smoking post-release.

Keywords
Prison; Smoking; smokefree policy; cessation interventions; marginalised populations; inequalities

Notes
Output Status: Forthcoming

Journal
International Journal of Prison Health