Characteristics of smokeless tobacco users seeking treatment

Previous studies have described smokeless tobacco (ST) treatment seekers wi th minimal detail. In the present study, ST users (N = 402), who enrolled i n a ST cessation treatment study, were asked to complete an extensive quest ionnaire that inquired about their ST use patterns, use of other tobacco pr oducts, extent of dependence, previous attempts to quit, situations associa ted with use and support for quitting. The results showed that this populat ion experiences a high level of nicotine exposure and physical dependence o n ST. ST use frequently is associated with negative affect situations and t imes of hunger. A high frequency of users have smoked cigarettes as well as cigars. A supportive social environment for ST cessation exists for these individuals. These results have implications for ST treatment content. (C) 1999 Elsevier Science Ltd.