Abstract
The prevalence of tobacco smoking in patients with schizophrenia is high (45-80 %), according to meta-analyses 2-3 times higher than in the given population. In addition, these patients have a stronger addiction compared to regular smokers (they smoke a larger number of cigarettes, more often and with greater intensity) and the eventual withdrawal from nicotine tends to be more difficult.
They have higher mortality and morbidity due to smoking. Cigarette smoking has been shown to be a risk factor for developing schizophrenia and worsening its prognosis.
The thesis summarizes the possible reasons for smoking in this group of patients: genetic factors, the use of smoking to self-medicate the symptoms of schizophrenia and the side effects of psychotropic drugs, but also social factors. Despite the clearly proven negative effects of smoking, both general and specific to patients with schizophrenia, smoking is overlooked in the Czech Republic and tobacco addiction treatment is not routinely recommended and offered.