Trends in the prevalence of tobacco use in the United States, 1991-1992 to 2004-2005.

OBJECTIVE This study examined changes in the prevalence of daily tobacco use in the United States between 1991-1992 and 2004-2005 by sociodemographic characteristics and psychiatric disorders. METHODS Secondary analyses were performed using data from the National Longitudinal Alcohol Epidemiologic Survey, conducted in 1991-1992 (N=41,612), and wave 2 of the National Epidemiologic Survey on Alcohol and Related Conditions, conducted in 2004-2005 (N=34,653). RESULTS Although the overall prevalence of past-year daily tobacco use decreased significantly, the reduction was not uniform across all segments of the population. In both surveys, past-year daily tobacco use was higher among respondents with a drug use disorder, an alcohol use disorder, and major depressive disorder and among individuals from socioeconomically disadvantaged groups. Declines in use were slower among individuals with a lifetime alcohol use disorder or major depressive disorder. The prevalence of past-year daily tobacco use did not decrease among Native Americans. CONCLUSIONS Individuals with substance use disorders or major depressive disorder and Native Americans reported higher rates of past-year daily tobacco use than the general population. These findings suggest the need to emphasize specific interventions for these groups.