This study has important implications for policy given that our findings show a high prevalence of past-year and current smoking among those at risk of alcohol dependence. To reach the UK Government's target of lowering smoking prevalence below 5% by 2030, efforts need to be focused on those groups where smoking is most prevalent. Our data show this should include targeted support for those at risk of alcohol dependence and that policy and practice documents need to explicitly highlight this group, alongside other intersections of disadvantage including living in social housing, mental illness, other substance dependencies and marginalised and minority communities, to improve treatment as part of the NHS long-term plan and to reduce health inequalities associated with smoking.1,2
