Helping people in substance use treatment reduce tobacco harm

Evaluating a tobacco harm reduction strategy among clients enrolled in substance use disorder treatment

NIH-funded research Medical University of South Carolina · NIH-11192931

This study is looking at ways to help people who are getting treatment for substance use disorders quit smoking by encouraging them to switch from regular cigarettes to safer options like e-cigarettes, making it easier for them to improve their health while tackling both issues at the same time.

Quick facts

Grant typeR01 grant
Study typeNIH-funded research
Funding institutionMedical University of South Carolina NIH-funded
Lab location1 site (Charleston, United States)
Project IDNIH-11192931 on NIH RePORTER

What this research studies

This research investigates how to effectively reduce tobacco use among individuals undergoing treatment for substance use disorders. It focuses on implementing low-intensity harm reduction strategies that encourage smokers to switch from combustible cigarettes to less harmful alternatives, such as e-cigarettes. The approach aims to improve health outcomes for patients by addressing both their substance use and smoking habits simultaneously. By evaluating the effectiveness of these strategies, the research seeks to enhance the overall treatment experience for patients.

Who could benefit from this research

Good fit: Ideal candidates for this research are individuals currently enrolled in substance use disorder treatment who also smoke cigarettes.

Not a fit: Patients who do not smoke or are not enrolled in substance use disorder treatment may not receive any benefit from this research.

Why it matters

Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to improved health outcomes for patients by reducing tobacco-related illnesses among those in substance use disorder treatment.

How similar studies have performed: Previous research has shown that harm reduction strategies can be effective in improving health outcomes for smokers, particularly in populations with high rates of substance use.

Where this research is happening

Charleston, United States

Researchers

About this research

  1. This is an active NIH-funded research project — typically early-stage science, not a clinical trial accepting patient enrollment.
  2. Some NIH-funded labs run parallel clinical studies or seek volunteers for related work. To check, contact the principal investigator or institution listed above.
  3. For full project details, budget, and progress reports, visit the official NIH RePORTER page below.
Last reviewed 2026-06-13 by the Find a Trial editorial team. Information on this page is for educational purposes and is not medical advice. Always consult qualified healthcare professionals about clinical trial participation.