2022 World Conference on Lung Cancer (ePosters)-EP15.01-002. Lowering Rates of Smoking after Cancer Diagnosis: Use Social Networks

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This study focuses on the relationship between smoking cessation and cancer diagnosis. Tobacco use is the leading cause of preventable cancer deaths, accounting for 40% of all cancer-related deaths. Continued smoking after a cancer diagnosis can lead to worse outcomes, including treatment complications, cancer recurrence, and the development of second primary cancers. On the other hand, smoking cessation is linked to improved outcomes, with higher survival rates in those who quit compared to continued smokers. However, quit rates after cancer diagnosis remain low, ranging from 37% to 48%, and relapse rates are high at 50-80% in cancer survivors.<br /><br />The study emphasizes the importance of quitting smoking for cancer patients. Being diagnosed with cancer is a teachable moment that can motivate patients to quit. Social networks also play a crucial role in tobacco cessation, as living with smokers reduces the odds of quitting. The study highlights the need for innovative, engaging, and effective smoking cessation platforms for cancer patients, as no active smokers in the study were enrolled in a smoking cessation program.<br /><br />The questionnaire used in the study assessed patients' smoking status, motivation to quit, family dynamics, and interest in enrolling in a smoking cessation program. The findings showed that married individuals had higher odds of quitting compared to those who were not married. However, living with a smoker did not significantly impact quitting odds. Additionally, social networks can influence smoking cessation, as some relatives of cancer patients also quit smoking after their diagnosis.<br /><br />The study underscores the importance of targeted programs to assist cancer survivors in quitting smoking and preventing relapse, especially considering the growing number of cancer survivors. Living with smokers and lack of integration of social support networks in smoking cessation programs are significant challenges that need to be addressed. Initiating smoking cessation treatment as soon as possible after diagnosis is crucial, and involving partners and family members in cessation programs can significantly increase the chances of success.

Asset Subtitle

Melissa Neumann

Meta Tag

Speaker Melissa Neumann

Topic Tobacco Control and Risk Reduction

Keywords

smoking cessation

cancer diagnosis

tobacco use

preventable cancer deaths

quit rates

relapse rates

social networks

cancer survivors

teachable moment

targeted programs