Smoking Characteristics of Veterans With Bipolar Disorder

In 2006, the prevalence of bipolar disorder among veterans who use VHA facilities and clinics was estimated at 4.4% of the treatment-seeking population.(1) This percentage compares with the estimated 1% to 5% of bipolar disorder prevalence in the general population.(2) Military service has been found to increase cigarette smoking over a lifespan, and there are estimates that more than 50% of veterans returning from Iraq and Afghanistan will return as smokers.(3-5) Furthermore, veterans with bipolar disorder who seek treatment from the VA may have greater rates of additional smoking-associated risk factors (eg, homelessness and lower education).