Advancing Smoking Cessation at the 2026 MD-DCSAM Annual Conference

Dr. George Kolodner

We were pleased to participate in the 2026 MD-DCSAM Annual Conference, highlighting our commitment to smoking cessation and evidence-based nicotine addiction treatment. The conference, hosted by the Maryland-DC Society of Addiction Medicine (MD-DCSAM), is the official regional addiction medicine conference of the American Society of Addiction Medicine Maryland-DC chapter. It brings together physicians and addiction treatment leaders focused on advancing research and clinical care.

We supported the event as a conference sponsor and hosted a Triple Track table connecting with clinicians and healthcare leaders interested in strengthening smoking cessation efforts within addiction treatment programs. 

Dr. Kolodner and Abigail Escobar

We were also proud to have had a poster presentation accepted.

Georgetown University medical student. Abigail Escobar presented “Triple Track: Treating Nicotine Addiction in the Non-Intensive Outpatient Program Setting,” describing our structured outpatient model for treating nicotine as a primary addictive disorder

The Triple Track model integrates pharmacotherapy — including varenicline, bupropion, and nicotine replacement therapy when appropriate — along with group and individual psychotherapy. This approach addresses smoking cessation within the broader bio-psycho-social context of addiction recovery rather than treating it as simply a behavior disorder.

Preliminary outcome data presented at the conference suggest improved cessation rates and meaningful reductions in nicotine use among participants engaged in the program. These findings reinforce the value of integrating smoking cessation directly into outpatient addiction care. 

We are grateful to MD-DCSAM for hosting such an important regional forum. We are especially proud of Abby Escobar for contributing to the ongoing advancement of nicotine addiction treatment and smoking cessation research. 

Interested in quitting? Check out another one of our blogs for helpful information and guidance to support you on your smoking cessation journey.