Health-risk behaviours among adolescent survivors of childhood cancer

Clinical, demographic factors, and substance use among Hispanic and non-Hispanic young adult childhood cancer survivors

PURPOSE

The purpose of this study is to examine the protective and risk factors of substance use behaviors (tobacco, marijuana, e-cigarette, and alcohol) among young adult childhood cancer survivors. The study focused on clinical (receipt of cancer-related follow-up care, treatment intensity, late effects, depressive symptoms, self-rated health) and demographic (race/ethnicity, neighborhood socioeconomic status) factors and their associations with substance use.

METHODS

Participants were from the Project Forward cohort, a population-based study of young adult survivors of childhood cancers. Participants (N = 1166, Mage = 25.1 years) were recruited through the Los Angeles Cancer Surveillance Program (Cancer Registry covering Los Angeles County, California). Multivariate path analyses were performed with substance use as the outcome variables and clinical and demographic factors as independent variables. Covariates included age and sex.

FINDING

Substance use was positively associated with depressive symptoms, and inversely associated with cancer-related follow-up care, female sex, age, Hispanic ethnicity, treatment intensity, and self-rated health. Neighborhood SES was inversely associated with tobacco use, while being positively associated with binge drinking and e-cigarette use. The results highlight the interrelationship between the clinical and demographic variables and their associations with different substance use.

CONCLUSION

Findings support the need for effective interventions targeting substance use behavior among CCS. This will help improve long-term outcomes and mitigate the risk for early morbidity.

Treatment-specific risk of subsequent malignant neoplasms in five-year survivors of diffuse large B-cell lymphoma

BACKGROUND

The introduction of rituximab significantly improved the prognosis of diffuse large B-cell lymphoma (DLBCL), emphasizing the importance of evaluating the long-term consequences of exposure to radiotherapy, alkylating agents and anthracycline-containing (immuno)chemotherapy among DLBCL survivors.

METHODS

Long-term risk of subsequent malignant neoplasms (SMNs) was examined in a multicenter cohort comprising 2373 5-year DLBCL survivors treated at ages 15-61 years in 1989-2012. Observed SMN numbers were compared with expected cancer incidence to estimate standardized incidence ratios (SIRs) and absolute excess risks (AERs/10 000 person-years). Treatment-specific risks were assessed using multivariable Cox regression.

RESULTS

After a median follow-up of 13.8 years, 321 survivors developed one or more SMNs (SIR 1.5, 95% CI 1.3-1.8, AER 51.8). SIRs remained increased for at least 20 years after first-line treatment (SIR ≥20-year follow-up 1.5, 95% CI 1.0-2.2, AER 81.8) and were highest among patients ≤40 years at first DLBCL treatment (SIR 2.7, 95% CI 2.0-3.5). Lung (SIR 2.0, 95% CI 1.5-2.7, AER 13.4) and gastrointestinal cancers (SIR 1.5, 95% CI 1.2-2.0, AER 11.8) accounted for the largest excess risks. Treatment with >4500 mg/m2 cyclophosphamide/>300 mg/m2 doxorubicin versus ≤2250 mg/m2/≤150 mg/m2, respectively, was associated with increased solid SMN risk (hazard ratio 1.5, 95% CI 1.0-2.2). Survivors who received rituximab had a lower risk of subdiaphragmatic solid SMNs (hazard ratio 0.5, 95% CI 0.3-1.0) compared with survivors who did not receive rituximab.

CONCLUSION

Five-year DLBCL survivors have an increased risk of SMNs. Risks were higher for survivors ≤40 years at first treatment and survivors treated with >4500 mg/m2 cyclophosphamide/>300 mg/m2 doxorubicin, and may be lower for survivors treated in the rituximab era, emphasizing the need for studies with longer follow-up for rituximab-treated patients.

Late health effects and changes in lifestyle factors after cancer in childhood with and without subsequent second primary cancers – the KiKme case-control study

Background

Improved treatments for childhood cancer result in a growing number of long-term childhood cancer survivors (CCS). The diagnosis and the prevalence of comorbidities may, however, influence their lifestyle later in life. Nonetheless, little is known about differences in late effects between CCS of a first primary neoplasm (FPN) in childhood and subsequent second primary neoplasms (SPN) and their impact on lifestyle. Therefore, we aim to investigate associations between the occurrence of FPN or SPN and various diseases and lifestyle in the later life of CCS.

Methods

CCS of SPN (n=101) or FPN (n=340) and cancer-free controls (n=150) were matched by age and sex, and CCS additionally by year and entity of FPN. All participants completed a self-administered questionnaire on anthropometric and socio-economic factors, medical history, health status, and lifestyle. Mean time between FPN diagnosis and interview was 27.3 years for SPN and 26.2 years for FPN CCS. To confirm results from others and to generate new hypotheses on late effects of childhood cancer as well as CCS´ lifestyles, generalized linear mixed models were applied.

Results

CCS were found to suffer more likely from diseases compared to cancer-free controls. In detail, associations with cancer status were observed for hypercholesterinemia and thyroid diseases. Moreover, CCS were more likely to take regular medication compared to controls. A similar association was observed for CCS of SPN compared to CCS of FPN. In contrast to controls, CCS rarely exercise more than 5 hours per week, consumed fewer soft and alcoholic drinks, and were less likely to be current, former, or passive smokers. Additionally, they were less likely overweight or obese. All other exploratory analyses performed on cardiovascular, chronic lung, inflammatory bone, allergic, and infectious diseases, as well as on a calculated health-score revealed no association with tumor status.

Conclusion

CCS were more affected by pathologic conditions and may consequently take more medication, particularly among CCS of SPN. The observed higher disease burden is likely related to the received cancer therapy. To reduce the burden of long-term adverse health effects in CCS, improving cancer therapies should therefore be in focus of research in this area.

Health behaviors in adolescent survivors of cancer: An integrative review

PROBLEM

Adolescent survivors of cancer face an increased risk of chronic health conditions that can be improved by healthy behaviors. The purpose of this review is to synthesize the extent/prevalence of health behaviors (physical activity [PA], diet, human papillomavirus [HPV] vaccination, alcohol use, smoking, marijuana use, and unprotected sex) compared to age-matched peers and factors associated with those behaviors.

ELIGIBILITY CRITERIA

Four databases (PubMed, EMBASE, PsycINFO, and CINAHL) were searched for peer-reviewed primary studies published since 2000 including adolescents aged 11-20 years-old, who had completed cancer treatments. Studies reporting at least one behavior were included.

SAMPLE

Of 1979 articles reviewed, 27 studies reporting any of the following health behaviors were included: PA, diet, HPV vaccination, alcohol use, smoking, marijuana use, or unprotected sex.

RESULTS

Adolescent survivors of cancer engaged less in health risk behaviors (alcohol use, smoking, marijuana use, and unprotected sex) or health-promoting behaviors (PA, healthy diet, and HPV vaccination) compared to age-matched peers. Their health behaviors were associated with psychosocial factors including emotional discomfort (e.g., feeling depressed or nervous) and influence of others (family, friends, and healthcare providers).

CONCLUSIONS

Although health risk behaviors in adolescent survivors of cancer are not as prevalent as in their peers, the survivors' low engagement in health-promoting behaviors including PA, diet, and HPV vaccination is concerning.

IMPLICATIONS

More research is needed to develop and evaluate interventions to improve health-promoting behaviors in adolescent survivors of cancer by strengthening or facilitating psychosocial resources.

Systematic Review of Substance Use Measurement Tools in Adolescent and Young Adult Childhood Cancer Survivors

Substance use among adolescents and young adults (AYAs) is associated with an increased risk of poor physical and mental health outcomes. For AYA childhood cancer survivors (CCSs), substance use may also increase their likelihood of experiencing late effects. As a result, professional organizations recommend that AYA CCSs be regularly screened for risk behaviors, including substance use. The best methods for assessing these behaviors as part of clinical care for AYA CCSs, however, remain unclear. To begin to address this gap, the purpose of this study was to systematically review written substance use measures that have been used with AYA CCSs and published between 2000 and 2020. A search of PubMed, PsycINFO, and CINAHL using terms related to substance use and AYA CCSs identified 47 articles representing 20 different written substance use measures that evaluated current substance use (i.e., use of alcohol, tobacco, marijuana, prescription medications taken in a manner other than as prescribed, and/or other illicit substances within the 12 months). Measures varied in domains assessed, item formats, and response formats. Results are presented alongside recommendations for selecting screening tools for use with AYA CCS populations in both clinical and research settings.

Smoking and Cannabis Use among Childhood Cancer Survivors: Results of the French Childhood Cancer Survivor Study

BACKGROUND

Unhealthy behaviors among childhood cancer survivors increase the risks for cancer treatment adverse effects. We aimed to assess tobacco and cannabis use prevalence in this population and to identify factors associated with these consumptions.

METHODS

This study involved 2,887 5-year survivors from the French childhood cancer survivor study (FCCSS) cohort. Data on health behaviors were compared with those of controls from the general population. Associations of current smoking and cannabis use with clinical features, sociodemographic characteristics, and health-related quality of life (QOL) were investigated using multivariable logistic regressions.

RESULTS

Prevalence for tobacco use was lower in survivors (26%) than in controls (41%, P < 0.001). Among current smokers, survivors smoked more cigarettes per day and started at a younger age than controls. Women, college graduates, older, married, and CNS tumor survivors, as well as those who received chemotherapy and thoracic radiation therapy, were less likely to be smokers and/or cannabis consumers than others. Participants with a poor mental QOL were more likely to smoke.

CONCLUSIONS

Preventive interventions and cessation programs must be carried out as early as possible in survivors' life, especially among young males with low educational level and poor mental health.

IMPACT

This study brings new insights to health behaviors among childhood cancer survivors from a population with high rates of smoking and cannabis use.

Health Behaviors of Chinese Childhood Cancer Survivors: A Comparison Study with Their Siblings

Purpose: This study aimed to compare health behaviors between the childhood cancer survivors (CCS) and their sibling controls and to examine the pattern of health behaviors of the Hong Kong Chinese CCS and its associations with their health-related quality of life and psychological distress. Methods: A cross-sectional telephone survey was conducted. A total of 614 CCS and 208 sibling controls participated in this study. Patterns of health behaviors including lifestyle behaviors, cancer screening practices, and insurance coverage were compared. Multivariate regression analyses were performed for examining factors associated with health behaviors in CCS. Results: CCS had less alcohol consumption when compared with their sibling controls (adjusted odds ratio (AOR) = 0.65, p = 0.035). The sibling controls were more likely to have cancer screening practices (AOR = 0.38, p = 0.005) and health (AOR = 0.27, p < 0.001) and life insurance coverage (AOR = 0.38, p < 0.001). Among the CCS, those who were male, having a job or higher education, shorter time since diagnosis, and type of cancer suffered were significantly associated with alcohol consumption. Those CCS who were drinkers indicated poorer mental health (p = 0.004) and more psychological distress. Female CCS undertaking cancer screening were more likely to be employed, married/cohabiting, and have received intensive cancer treatment. Conclusion: This study reveals that Chinese childhood cancer survivors are less likely to engage in unhealthy lifestyle behaviors, insurance coverage and cancer screening, when compared with their siblings. Implications for Cancer Survivors: It is crucial for healthcare professionals to identify strategies or target interventions for raising CCS's awareness of their cancer risks and healthy lifestyle throughout their life.

Covariates of risky health behaviors in pediatric cancer survivors during adolescence

PURPOSE

Adolescent survivors of pediatric cancers may use alcohol and tobacco (73-90% and 10-29%, respectively) at similar rates as their healthy peers despite known adverse health effects of these substances. This is concerning given that these behaviors can increase the risk for adverse late effects among this population. This study explores the beliefs and behaviors associated with alcohol and tobacco use among adolescent survivors of pediatric cancer.

DESIGN

Cross-sectional study using assessment questionnaires by telephone.

PARTICIPANTS

Adolescent cancer survivors who had been seen at Memorial Sloan Kettering Cancer Center (n = 128).

METHODS

Questionnaires concerned participants' medical history, current health behaviors, attitudes about health behaviors, fear of cancer recurrence, cancer worry, knowledge of risk, and perceived risk of future health problems. Univariate and multiple logistic regression analyses determined the association between psychological covariates with having ever used alcohol and cigarettes.

RESULTS

In multiple logistic regression, higher positive attitude (OR = 3.65; p < 0.001) toward alcohol use and lower knowledge of the risk of binge drinking (OR = 0.38; p < 0.05) were significantly related to alcohol use. Older age (OR = 1.55; p < 0.01), lower knowledge of the risks of smoking (0.41; p < 0.05), and the subjective norm that smoking is desirable to others (OR = 1.90; p < 0.05) were significantly related to cigarette use.

CONCLUSION AND IMPLICATIONS FOR PSYCHOSOCIAL PROVIDERS

Understanding the uptake of risky health behaviors and factors related to tobacco and alcohol use for adolescent survivors is imperative to promoting lifelong healthy behaviors and potentially reducing future adverse health effects. Despite broadly disseminated public service campaigns and anticipatory guidance of our cancer specialists to inform youth about the adverse effects of alcohol and tobacco use, there remains a gap in adolescent cancer survivors' knowledge of these risks. More effective interventions to increase knowledge of the risks of drinking and smoking are needed to bridge this gap.

Does in-prison physical and mental health impact recidivism?

Incarceration is definitively linked to poor health, and upon release from prison, many individuals experience difficulty in maintaining good health. Given the complexity of the reentry process, one's health status, both in and out of prison, likely influences additional aspects of reentry, such as abstaining from crime or adhering to parole terms. The purpose of this study is to determine whether in-prison physical and mental health, as well as changes to an individual's health upon release from prison, are related to the likelihood of recidivating. We employ the Serious and Violent Reentry Initiative (SVORI) data, a multi-state sample of formerly incarcerated males who are followed from prison to release into the community and interviewed about a number of post-prison release issues, including health. We use hierarchical logistic and multinomial regressions, where survey waves are nested within people, to assess if in-prison physical and mental health and post-release changes to health are associated with recidivism in two ways: general re-incarceration and re-incarceration due to either a technical violation of parole or a new conviction. With right-censoring due to recidivism or “failure,” our final sample size is 2180 person-periods (i.e., waves) nested within 871 respondents. We find that better physical health, both in-prison and changes in health post-release, is related to a higher likelihood of recidivating. Better mental health, both in-prison and changes to mental health post-release, is related to a decrease in the likelihood of recidivating. Individuals with poor mental health in-prison who make significant improvements after release see the largest reduction in their odds of recidivating. Finally, the combination of better mental health in-prison and increases in mental health post-release is associated with reductions in the likelihood of re-offending for both technical violations and new convictions. In sum, in-prison health continues to influence individuals after prison and is associated with their odds of recidivating, thus contributing to the churning of individuals through the prison system.

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We examine the relationship between in-prison and change in post-release health and recidivism.

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Better physical health in-prison and post-release is related to higher recidivism likelihood.

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Better mental health in-prison and post-release is related to lower recidivism likelihood.

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This mental health benefit applies to both technical violations and new convictions.

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A person's health in prison may be related to prison system churning.

Patterns of Storage, Use, and Disposal of Prescription Opioids by Parents of Children With Cancer

CONTEXT

Multiple studies have demonstrated that adults do not store prescription opioids safely. Increased prescription opioid rates have led to an increased incidence of opioid poisonings in children and adolescents.

OBJECTIVES

We investigated whether parents practiced safe storage, use, and disposal techniques of opioids that were prescribed to their child with cancer-related pain.

METHODS

We conducted a prospective cross-sectional survey of parents whose children were prescribed opioids and asked them about their patterns of storage, use, and disposal of prescription opioids.

RESULTS

Virtually, all parents (106 of 109; 97%) completed the survey. Most parents (95 of 106; 90%) did not store opioids safely. Six of 106 parents (6%) gave their child's opioid pain medication to someone else with pain, and three of 106 parents (3%) personally took some of their child's opioid. Parents who personally took their child's opioid (P = 0.01) or gave it to another person (P < 0.001) were more likely to use opioids unsafely with their child. A minority of parents (22 of 106; 21%) did not use opioids safely in their child. A small number of parents (3 of 22; 14%) did not dispose of opioids safely.

CONCLUSION

Universal education about the safe use and disposal of opioids should be adopted when prescribing opioids. Pediatricians need to maintain vigilance about the nonmedical use of prescription opioid use by parents of children.

Prevalence and reasons for smoking in adolescent Swiss childhood cancer survivors

BACKGROUND

Smoking harms health, particularly that of childhood cancer survivors, who face risk of pulmonary and cardiovascular diseases because of chemotherapy and radiotherapy to the chest. This nationwide study assessed smoking habits and reasons for smoking in adolescent survivors and healthy peers.

METHODS

As part of the Swiss Childhood Cancer Survivor Study, we sent a questionnaire to all Swiss resident survivors, who were aged 16-19 years. We compared smoking status and reasons for smoking between 511 survivors, 141 of their siblings, and 1,727 adolescents in a representative population-based study, the Tobacco Monitoring Switzerland (TMS).

RESULTS

Current smoking was less prevalent in survivors (17%) and their siblings (17%) compared with TMS (32%). Survivors and TMS adolescents gave similar reasons for smoking. Stress control, smoking being a habit, and good taste were the reasons for smoking cited most often in both groups. Peer smoking was more important in survivors (49%) than in TMS (34%, P = 0.004). Most important reasons for not smoking in both groups were smoking being unhealthy and not wanting to be addicted.

CONCLUSIONS

In Switzerland, survivors smoke as often as their siblings but less than the general population. Peer smoking was a more important reason for smoking in survivors than in the general population, suggesting that reducing smoking in peers could result in a reduction of smoking in survivors. Overall, reasons for smoking were very similar, thus interventions to reduce smoking in survivors could be the same as those used in the general population.

Early Post-Therapy Prescription Drug Usage among Childhood and Adolescent Cancer Survivors

OBJECTIVE

To describe the patterns of prescription drug use among child and adolescent survivors of cancer in the early post-therapy period compared with matched peers without a cancer history.

STUDY DESIGN

Using the MarketScan commercial insurance claims database, we performed a retrospective cohort study identifying survivors of pediatric (0-21 years of age at diagnosis) leukemia, lymphoma, central nervous system, bone, or gonadal cancers who completed therapy from 2000 to 2011 and remained insured for 3 years post-therapy. Prescription fills during the first 3 years post-therapy were examined, categorized by drug class, and compared with age-, sex-, and region-matched individuals without cancer.

RESULTS

We identified 1414 survivors and 14 007 comparators. Compared with those without cancer, survivors had 1.5-4.5 times greater risk for filling opioids. Survivors of leukemia, lymphoma, central nervous system, and bone cancers had 2-5 times the risk for antidepressant and 3-7 times the risk for anxiolytic use. Survivors of leukemia, lymphoma, and bone tumors had 3-13 times the risk for angiotensin-converting enzyme inhibitors by the third year post-therapy.

CONCLUSION

Compared with peers without cancer, survivors of childhood cancer have greater rates of prescription use across many drug classes, suggesting greater medical morbidity. Survivors were more likely to use opioid, psychoactive, hormone, and cardiovascular medications. All general pediatricians and subspecialists should be aware of potentially emerging morbidities during the early post-therapy period to guide risk-based surveillance and survivorship care.

Substance use among adolescent and young adult cancer survivors

OBJECTIVE

Health-promoting behaviors are recommended to childhood cancer survivors (CCS) to reduce late effects resulting from cancer treatment. Understanding factors associated with substance use is needed, especially among Hispanic CCS who are underrepresented in previous studies. The objective of this study is to examine substance use behaviors of recently treated Hispanic and non-Hispanic CCS.

METHODS

One hundred ninety-three Los Angeles County CCS who were diagnosed between 2000 and 2007 (54% Hispanic; mean age 19.9 years, SD = 2.8; mean age at diagnosis = 12.1, SD = 3.0; mean years since diagnosis = 7.8, SD = 2.0) provided self-reported information on substance use, demographics, clinical factors, religiosity, and depressive symptoms. Risk and protective factors for substance use were examined using multivariable logistic regression.

RESULTS

Prevalence of 30-day substance use was 11%, 25%, and 14% for tobacco, alcohol, and marijuana, respectively. In controlled regression models, age was positively associated with tobacco use, binge drinking, and polysubstance use (use of at least two of the three substances). Male gender, higher depressive symptoms, and higher socioeconomic status were associated with greater marijuana use. In addition, religiosity was negatively associated with the use of all substances.

CONCLUSIONS

The prevalence rates for substance use in this ethnically diverse representative sample of CCS are lower than those observed in the general population. Older CCS were at higher risk of substance use, and depression was associated with greater marijuana use. No differences by ethnicity were observed. Interventions for substance use prevention/cessation among CCS may be most effective if implemented before the age of 21 years and address mental health as part of survivorship care. Copyright © 2015 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.

Distinct health behavior and psychosocial profiles of young adult survivors of childhood cancers: a mixed methods study

BACKGROUND

We used a mixed-methods approach to examine health behavior profiles of young adult cancer survivors and characterize related sociodemographic and psychosocial factors.

METHODS

We conducted a mail-based survey assessing sociodemographics, cancer treatment, health behaviors (e.g., tobacco use, physical activity), healthcare provider interactions, and psychosocial factors (e.g., Profile of Moods States [POMS]) among 106 young adult survivors from a southeastern cancer center and semi-structured interviews among a subset of 26.

RESULTS

A k-means cluster analysis using eight health behaviors yielded three distinct health behavior profiles: high risk (n = 25), moderate risk (n = 39), and low risk (n = 40). High risks had the highest current alcohol, tobacco, and marijuana use; physical activity; and number of sexual partners (p's < 0.001). They had higher symptoms of POMS tension-anxiety, depression-dejection, fatigue-inertia, and confusion-bewilderment (p's < 0.05). Moderate risks had lowest physical activity (p < 0.05) but otherwise had moderate health behaviors. Low risks had the lowest alcohol, tobacco, and marijuana use and fewest sexual partners (p's < 0.05). They had the lowest levels of tension-anxiety, depression-dejection, fatigue-inertia, and confusion-bewilderment (p's < 0.05). Qualitative interviews showed that cancer had a range of effects on health behaviors and variable experiences regarding how healthcare providers address these behaviors.

CONCLUSIONS

Assessing health behavior profiles, rather than individual health behaviors, is informative in characterizing young adult cancer survivors and targeting survivorship care.

IMPLICATIONS FOR CANCER SURVIVORS

Young adult cancer survivors demonstrate distinct health behavior profiles and are differentially impacted by the experience of cancer. Healthcare providers should be consistently intervening to ensure that survivors understand their specific health risks.

Smoking, Binge Drinking, and Drug Use Among Childhood Cancer Survivors: A Meta-Analysis

INTRODUCTION

Childhood cancer survivors are at risk for late effects of therapy, some of which may be exacerbated by smoking, alcohol, or drug use. We undertook a meta-analysis of the literature to determine whether survivors engage in risk-taking behaviors at rates different from their peers/siblings.

METHODS

Studies comparing current engagement in risk-taking behaviors between cancer survivors and siblings or matched peers were identified in MEDLINE (1946-), EMBASE (1947-), PsychINFO (1806-), and the Cochrane Controlled Trials Register. Two reviewers assessed publications for inclusion and extracted data independently. Studies were combined using inverse variance weighting to determine odds ratios (OR) and prevalence rates of risk-taking behaviors in survivors compared to controls.

RESULTS

Fourteen of 1,713 studies satisfied inclusion criteria. Twelve assessed smoking, six binge drinking, and seven drug use. Among survivors, 22% (95% confidence interval 0.19, 0.26) smoked, 20% (0.08, 0.51) were binge drinkers, and 15% (0.10, 0.23) used drugs. Survivors were less likely than siblings to smoke (OR 0.68 [0.49, 0.96]) or binge drink (OR 0.77 [0.68, 0.88]), but similarly likely to use drugs (OR 0.33 [0.03, 3.28]). Survivors were less likely than matched peers to smoke (OR 0.54 [0.42, 0.70]) or use drugs (OR 0.57 [0.40, 0.82]), but equally likely to binge drink (OR 0.97 [0.38, 2.49]).

CONCLUSIONS

Childhood cancer survivors engage in similar or lower rates of risk taking than their siblings/peers. Future studies should identify survivors most likely to benefit from focused interventions, and determine the impact of risk-taking behaviors on the risk for late effects of cancer therapy.

Pediatric Blood Cancer Survivors and Tobacco Use across Adolescence and Emerging Adulthood: A Narrative Review

Scholars underline the pivotal role of tobacco cigarette smoking in carcinogenesis process for blood tumors. A controversial debate is represented by the diffusion of tobacco use in young cancer survivors that had a previous diagnosis of blood tumor during the childhood. Compared with their peers, scientific evidence highlights that pediatric survivors have more difficult to give-up cigarette smoking. Furthermore, tobacco-smoking is frequently linked with others risk behaviors as drinking or substance abuse. In reviewing the main knowledge on this topic, authors affirm the need for increasing research on blood cancer survivors in order to depict psychological characteristics of pediatric blood cancer survivors. Improving health decision-making skills in young survivors could reduce the risk to adopt un-healthy behaviors and increase psychological wellbeing. Furthermore, authors propose tailored antismoking interventions based on the knowledge of the psychological and cognitive factors that support smoking during the transition toward emerging-adulthood.

Smoking behavior among adult childhood cancer survivors: what are we missing?

PURPOSE

Childhood cancer survivors are a growing population at increased risk for smoking-related health complications. This study compared smoking prevalence, age at smoking initiation, and time trend of smoking prevalence from 1997 to 2010 between adult survivors of childhood cancer and adults without a cancer history (controls) and identified predictors of smoking among these survivors.

METHODS

Data were pooled from the 1997-2010 National Health Interview Survey (survivors, n = 1438; controls, n = 383,805). Smoking prevalence by age group was calculated using weighted least square regression analysis and weighted linear regression of prevalence on year for trend analysis. Logistic regression analyses adjusting for sample weights and design effects were performed to identify predictors of smoking among survivors.

RESULTS

Compared to controls, survivors were significantly more likely to be younger, female, non-Hispanic White, unemployed, with lower income, and to weigh less and smoke more. Survivors initiated smoking earlier than controls. Smoking prevalence among survivors peaked at age 30 and 40 years old, compared to age 25 years in controls. Smoking prevalence decreased consistently from 1997 to 2010 among controls, with larger significant declines in survivors that were subject to more year-to-year variability. Compared to nonsmoking survivors, those who smoke were significantly more likely to be non-Hispanic White, young, uninsured, poor, to have a high school education or less, and to report drinking alcohol.

CONCLUSION

Smoking in adult survivors of childhood cancer continues as a persistent risk factor across socioeconomic groups.

IMPLICATIONS FOR CANCER SURVIVORS

Targeted and tailored smoking cessation/prevention interventions for these survivors are needed.

Needs and Lifestyle Challenges of Adolescents and Young Adults With Cancer: Summary of an Institute of Medicine and Livestrong Foundation Workshop

BACKGROUND

Among adolescents and young adults (AYAs) in the United States, cancer is the leading cause of disease-related death. AYA survivors face numerous short- and long-term health and psychosocial issues, as well as increased risk for behavioral and lifestyle challenges, including poor diet, low physical activity (PA), and substance abuse. Many of these behaviors are modifiable, but gaps in care serve as barriers for AYA survivors.

OBJECTIVES

The purpose of this article is to (a) raise awareness of AYAs' increased risk for poor diet, low PA, and substance abuse; (b) examine previous interventions addressing these issues; and (c) provide recommendations for future directions.

METHODS

This article summarizes a workshop coordinated by the Institute of Medicine and the Livestrong Foundation to address AYA survivors' needs and ways to enhance their quality of care.

FINDINGS

Oncology nurses can promote the inclusion of lifestyle behaviors in survivorship care plans of AYA patients and serve as a valuable resource in improving AYA care on a larger scale. In addition, oncology nurse researchers may offer greater understanding of AYA patients' and survivors' needs and best practices by conducting much-needed research with this understudied population.

Health Promoting Lifestyle Among Israeli Adult Survivors of Childhood Cancer

Background: Childhood cancer survivors are at risk for recurrence of their primary cancer as well as other secondary site cancers. The survivors are also at increased risk for long-term effects such as chronic illnesses. Health promoting lifestyles are therefore especially important for childhood cancer survivors. The purpose of the study was to describe the health promoting behaviors of childhood cancer survivors and to determine whether these behaviors are associated with demographic and clinical characteristics. This is a descriptive-comparative study that took place in an oncology follow-up clinic in Israel. Sample: Seventy-seven childhood cancer survivors. Tools: Health Promoting Lifestyle Profile 2, questionnaire (interpersonal relationships, spiritual growth, physical activity, nutrition, health responsibility, and stress management), and smoking and alcohol consumption and a demographic–clinical questionnaire. The mean item score was moderate-high. Survivors scored highest on interpersonal relationships and spiritual growth while the lowest scoring activities were physical activity and nutrition. About 30% of the survivors abstained from smoking and alcohol consumption. Women, as opposed to men, were more likely to have higher scores related to nutrition and interpersonal relationships while singles as opposed to those who were married were found to have higher scores related to spiritual growth. Conclusions: Health behaviors associated with interpersonal relationships and spiritual growth were more likely to be performed compared to physical activity, good nutrition, and decreased smoking and alcohol consumption. Special attention should be placed on promoting physical activity and good nutrition among survivors of childhood cancer.

[Life style and occupational factors and prevention of second primary cancers after childhood and adolescent cancer: Current state of knowledge]

CONTEXT

Survival of children, adolescents and young adults treated for cancer increased with improved treatments. But there is still an increased risk of second primary cancer (SPC) in the long term compared to the population of the same age, especially related to treatments. A reflection on the follow-up of this population and the prevention of SPC is an important issue.

OBJECTIVES

To perform a synthesis of the available literature on SCP risk factors, related risk behaviors, occupational exposures and prevention strategies.

METHODS

Literature search on PubMed from the following equation: "cancer [Tiab] AND young adult [Tiab] or teen [Tiab] or childhood [Tiab] AND prevention [Tiab] AND survivors [Mesh term]".

RESULTS

Twenty-seven articles were included in this synthesis. Children, adolescents and young adults have similar risk behaviors than those of their peers regarding tobacco, diet and sun exposure; however, they have lower physical activity. There are few studies on prevention strategies focused on this population. Results of available studies remain inconclusive. No publication was found in relation to occupational exposure and risk of second cancer.

CONCLUSIONS

Children, adolescents and young adults treated for cancer are a population at risk and require long-term follow-up and the implementation of effective prevention strategies tailored to this population.

Psychiatric disorders in 130 survivors of childhood cancer: preliminary results of a semi-standardized interview

BACKGROUND

Although psychological sequelae are well known among survivors of childhood cancer, psychiatric sequelae remain inadequately explored. Long-term psychiatric sequelae and their main risk factors in this population were evaluated.

PROCEDURE

Initially, 483 survivors of childhood cancer, except leukemia, were invited to complete a questionnaire assessing their health and quality of life. Of them, 130 completed the survey, subsequently consulted with a pediatric oncologist and an internist, and met with a psychologist for a semi-standardized interview based on the Mini International Neuropsychiatric Interview (MINI), which allowed diagnosis of DSM-IV Axis 1 psychiatric disorders. The collected data were compared with those of the French general population.

RESULTS

Seventy-three of the 130 survivors (56.2%) who completed the MINI interview reported experiencing at least one psychiatric disorder since cancer diagnosis, mostly anxiety (39.2%), mood (27.7%), or major depressive (24.6%) disorders; 46 reported at least one current disorder (35.4%). Agoraphobia (P = 0.02) and psychotic disorders were more common (P = 0.003) and general anxiety disorder less common (P < 0.001) among survivors than the general population. Most disorders correlated significantly with survivors' ratings of lower quality of life. Smoking, cancer type, and treatments significantly influenced the prevalence of psychiatric disorders.

CONCLUSIONS

Results were consistent between the self-questionnaire and MINI interview responses, though time may have biased memory. Vulnerability to and high risk for developing DSM-IV Axis 1 psychiatric disorders of childhood cancer survivors can persist long after diagnosis and treatment. Thus, systematic and general psychological screening of survivors may facilitate long-term psychological restoration.

Age-dependent changes in health status in the Childhood Cancer Survivor cohort

PURPOSE

To compare age-dependent changes in health status among childhood cancer survivors and a sibling cohort.

METHODS

Adult survivors of childhood cancer and siblings, all participants of the Childhood Cancer Survivor Study, completed three surveys assessing health status. At each of three time points, participants were classified as having poor outcomes in general health, mental health, function, or daily activities if they indicated moderate to extreme impairment. Generalized linear mixed models were used to compare survivors with siblings for each outcome as a function of age and to identify host- and treatment-related factors associated with age-dependent worsening health status.

RESULTS

Adverse health status outcomes were more frequent among survivors than siblings, with evidence of a steeper trajectory of age-dependent change among female survivors with impairment in at least one health status domain (P = .01). In adjusted models, survivors were more likely than siblings to report poor general health (prevalence ratio [PR], 2.37; 95% CI, 2.09 to 2.68), adverse mental health (PR, 1.66; 95% CI, 1.52 to 1.80), functional impairment (PR, 4.53; 95% CI, 3.91 to 5.24), activity limitations (PR, 2.38; 95% CI, 2.12 to 2.67), and an adverse health status outcome in any domain (PR, 2.10; 95% CI, 1.97 to 2.23). Cancer treatment and health behaviors influence the magnitude of differences by age groups. Chronic conditions were associated with adverse health status outcomes across organ systems.

CONCLUSION

The prevalence of poor health status is higher among survivors than siblings, increases rapidly with age, particularly among female participants, and is related to an increasing burden of chronic health conditions.

Health Behaviors of Childhood Cancer Survivors

There has been a dramatic increase in the number of childhood cancer survivors living to an old age due to improved cancer treatments. However, these survivors are at risk of numerous late effects as a result of their cancer therapy. Engaging in protective health behaviors and limiting health damaging behaviors are vitally important for these survivors given their increased risks. We reviewed the literature on childhood cancer survivors’ health behaviors by searching for published data and conference proceedings. We examine the prevalence of a variety of health behaviors among childhood cancer survivors, identify significant risk factors, and describe health behavior interventions for survivors.

Perceptions of risk among childhood and young adult cancer survivors who smoke

PURPOSE

Despite the fact that childhood and young adult cancer survivors are at increased risk for chronic health problems as a result of their cancer treatment, many use tobacco, thereby increasing their risks. Perceptions of risk related to tobacco use can be targeted for interventions aimed at improving health behaviors for childhood, adolescent, and young adult cancer survivors. Understanding the covariates of perceptions of health risks among young adult survivors who smoke will help to determine targets for intervention.

METHOD

Three hundred seventy-four participants who were diagnosed with cancer prior to age 35, currently between 18 and 55 years of age, and current smokers were recruited as part of a larger smoking cessation study, Partnership for Health-2 (PFH-2). Data were collected by telephone survey.

RESULTS

Overall, women had the highest perception of risk for serious health problems, a second cancer, and heart problems. Additionally, those participants who were dependent on nicotine endorsed that they were at higher risk of serious health problems and second cancers, but not heart problems. Finally, Hodgkin lymphoma survivors reported that they were at increased risk for second cancers and heart problems compared to their “healthy” peers.

CONCLUSION

Young adult cancer survivors who smoke correctly perceived some of their increased health risks. Additional motivation and education is needed for those young adult cancer survivors who perceive their increased health risks yet continue to smoke. Further education is needed for young survivors so they have a fully appropriate sense of risk, especially as it relates to their tobacco use.

Exploratory Analyses of Substance Use in Adolescents With and Without Cancer

PURPOSE

This study explored self-reported substance use and factors associated with use among adolescents with and without cancer.

METHODS

Adolescents (aged 13-19) receiving cancer treatment at a Mid-Atlantic children's hospital (n=103) and healthy peers (n=98) answered questions about substance use (drinking or drug use in past 4 months) and psychosocial variables. Parents completed demographic and family functioning questionnaires.

RESULTS

Healthy adolescents reported more substance use (n=17) than adolescents with cancer (n=8). Associates of substance use in adolescents with cancer included more avoidant and substance use-related coping, less positive affect, worse parent-reported family functioning, and less nausea.

CONCLUSION

Substance use and its health implications in adolescent oncology need enhanced awareness, intervention and prevention efforts, and further research.

Health promotion for adolescent childhood leukemia survivors: building on prevention science and ehealth

Teenage survivors of childhood acute lymphoblastic leukemia (ALL) have increased morbidity likely due to their prior multicomponent treatment. Habits established in adolescence can impact individuals' subsequent adult behaviors. Accordingly, healthy lifestyles, avoiding harmful actions, and appropriate disease surveillance are of heightened importance among teenage survivors. We review the findings from prevention science and their relevance to heath promotion. The capabilities and current uses of eHealth components including e-learning, serious video games, exergaming, behavior tracking, individual messaging, and social networking are briefly presented. The health promotion needs of adolescent survivors are aligned with those eHealth aspects to propose a new paradigm to enhance the wellbeing of adolescent ALL survivors.

Clustering of health behaviours in adult survivors of childhood cancer and the general population

BACKGROUND

Little is known about engagement in multiple health behaviours in childhood cancer survivors.

METHODS

Using latent class analysis, we identified health behaviour patterns in 835 adult survivors of childhood cancer (age 20-35 years) and 1670 age- and sex-matched controls from the general population. Behaviour groups were determined from replies to questions on smoking, drinking, cannabis use, sporting activities, diet, sun protection and skin examination.

RESULTS

The model identified four health behaviour patterns: 'risk-avoidance', with a generally healthy behaviour; 'moderate drinking', with higher levels of sporting activities, but moderate alcohol-consumption; 'risk-taking', engaging in several risk behaviours; and 'smoking', smoking but not drinking. Similar proportions of survivors and controls fell into the 'risk-avoiding' (42% vs 44%) and the 'risk-taking' cluster (14% vs 12%), but more survivors were in the 'moderate drinking' (39% vs 28%) and fewer in the 'smoking' cluster (5% vs 16%). Determinants of health behaviour clusters were gender, migration background, income and therapy.

CONCLUSION

A comparable proportion of childhood cancer survivors as in the general population engage in multiple health-compromising behaviours. Because of increased vulnerability of survivors, multiple risk behaviours should be addressed in targeted health interventions.

Risky health behavior among adolescents in the childhood cancer survivor study cohort

OBJECTIVE

To report the prevalence and comparison of cancer-linked health behaviors and identify risk factors associated with unhealthy behavior among adolescent siblings and cancer survivors.

METHODS

The Child Health and Illness Profile--Adolescent Edition (CHIP--AE) was completed by 307 survivors and 97 sibling controls 14-20 years of age.

RESULTS

Risky behavior ranged from 0.7% to 35.8% for survivors and 1.0% to 41.2% for siblings. Comparisons of sexual behavior, tobacco, alcohol, or illicit drug use utilizing continuous data revealed no differences between groups. Categorically, survivors were less likely to report past smokeless tobacco use or current use of beer/wine or binge drinking (p-values range from .01 to .04). Survivors with better mental health were at lower risk for poor behavioral outcomes.

CONCLUSIONS

Adolescent survivors engage in risky health behaviors at rates generally equivalent to their siblings. Aggressive health education efforts should be directed toward this high-risk population.

Risk factors for smoking among adolescent survivors of childhood cancer: a report from the Childhood Cancer Survivor Study

BACKGROUND

Few studies have examined risk factors for smoking among adolescent survivors of childhood cancer. The present study reports on the rate of smoking and identifies factors associated with smoking in a sample of adolescent survivors from the Childhood Cancer Survivor Study (CCSS).

PROCEDURE

Participants included 307 adolescent survivors and 97 healthy siblings (ages 14-20) who completed a self-report survey of health, quality of life, and health behaviors.

RESULTS

Smoking rates did not differ significantly between survivor and sibling groups (ever smokers: 28% vs. 33%, recent smokers: 10% vs. 9%, respectively). Ever smoking was significantly associated with peer smoking, smokers in the household, binging, suicidal behavior, and no history of CRT. There were significant interactions of peer smoking with gender and CRT for ever smoking and with binging for recent smoking. Recent smoking was more likely for survivors with other household smokers (RR=2.24, CI=1.21-4.16), past suicidality (RR=1.89, CI=1.00-3.56), and no CRT (RR=2.40, CI=1.12-5.17). Among survivors with few smoking friends, ever smoking was more likely for survivors with no CRT (RR=4.47, CI=1.43-13.9), and recent smoking was more likely among survivors who binged (RR=3.37, CI=1.17-9.71).

CONCLUSIONS

Despite the health risks associated with survivorship, nearly one in three adolescent survivors of childhood cancer has smoked. Exposure to other smokers, in particular, appears to increase the likelihood of smoking for some survivors. Providing smoking cessation programs targeted to family members, helping survivors choose non-smoking friends, and teaching ways to resist smoking influences from peers may be important pathways for smoking prevention with adolescent survivors.

Alcohol consumption and binge drinking in young adult childhood cancer survivors

BACKGROUND

This study compared frequency of alcohol consumption and binge drinking between young adult childhood cancer survivors and the general population in Switzerland, and assessed its socio-demographic and clinical determinants.

PROCEDURE

Childhood cancer survivors aged <16 years when diagnosed 1976-2003, who had survived >5 years and were currently aged 20-40 years received a postal questionnaire. Reported frequency of alcohol use and of binge drinking were compared to the Swiss Health Survey, a representative general population survey. Determinants of frequent alcohol consumption and binge drinking were assessed in a multivariable logistic regression.

RESULTS

Of 1,697 eligible survivors, 1,447 could be contacted and 1,049 (73%) responded. Survivors reported more often than controls to consume alcohol frequently (OR = 1.7; 95%CI = 1.3-2.1) and to engage in binge drinking (OR = 2.9; 95%CI = 2.3-3.8). Peak frequency of binge drinking in males occurred at age 24-26 years in survivors, compared to age 18-20 in the general population. Socio-demographic factors (male gender, high educational attainment, French and Italian speaking, and migration background from Northern European countries) were most strongly associated with alcohol consumption patterns among both survivors and controls.

CONCLUSIONS

The high frequency of alcohol consumption found in this study is a matter of concern. Our data suggest that survivors should be better informed on the health effects of alcohol consumption during routine follow-up, and that such counseling should be included in clinical guidelines. Future research should study motives of alcohol consumption among survivors to allow development of targeted health interventions for this vulnerable group.

Disseminating a smoking cessation intervention to childhood and young adult cancer survivors: baseline characteristics and study design of the partnership for health-2 study

BACKGROUND

Partnership for Health-2 (PFH-2) is a web-based version of Partnership for Health, an evidence-based smoking cessation intervention for childhood cancer survivors. This paper describes the PFH-2 intervention and baseline data collection.

METHODS

374 childhood and young adult cancer survivors were recruited from five cancer centers and participated in the baseline assessment. At baseline, participants completed measures of their smoking behavior, self-efficacy and stage of change for quitting smoking as well as psychological and environmental factors that could impact their smoking behavior.

RESULTS

At baseline, 93% of survivors smoked in the past seven days; however, 89% smoked a pack or less during this period. Forty-seven percent were nicotine dependent, and 55% had made at least one quit attempt in the previous year. Twenty-two percent of survivors were in contemplation for quitting smoking; of those 45% were somewhat or very confident that they could quit within six months. Sixty-three percent were in preparation for quitting smoking; however, they had relatively low levels of confidence that they could quit smoking in the next month. In multivariate analyses, stage of change, self-efficacy, social support for smoking cessation, smoking policy at work and home, fear of cancer recurrence, perceived vulnerability, depression, BMI, and contact with the healthcare system were associated with survivors' smoking behavior.

DISCUSSIONS/CONCLUSIONS

A large proportion of the sample was nicotine dependent, yet motivated to quit. Individual- interpersonal- and environmental-level factors were associated with survivors' smoking behavior. Smoking is particularly dangerous for childhood and young adult cancer survivors. This population may benefit from a smoking cessation intervention designed to build self-efficacy and address other known predictors of smoking behavior.

Design and recruitment of the Chicago Healthy Living Study: a study of health behaviors in a diverse cohort of adult childhood cancer survivors

BACKGROUND

Adult childhood cancer survivors are at higher risk for developing late medical effects related to their cancer treatments. Health-promoting behaviors may reduce the risk of some late effects and the severity of others. This article describes the design and recruitment of the Chicago Healthy Living Study (CHLS), an on-going study designed to examine the health behaviors and body mass index of minority adult childhood cancer survivors compared with nonminority survivors and noncancer controls.

METHODS

Survivors are identified by the hospital cancer registries at 5 treating institutions in the Chicago area; then, a multilevel recruitment plan will be implemented with the objective of enrolling 450 adult survivors of childhood cancer (150 in each racial/ethnic group). Simultaneously, 375 adult African-American, Hispanic, and non-Hispanic white noncancer controls (125 in each racial/ethnic group) living in the Chicago area will be recruited by using listed, targeted digit dialing. All participants will complete a 2-hour interview of questionnaires related to diet, physical activity, smoking, and associated mediators. Height and weight also will be measured.

CONCLUSIONS

The CHLS will provide important information on the health behaviors of adult minority childhood cancer survivors that can be used to inform the development of interventions to improve modifiable risks.

Survivors of childhood cancer and comparison peers: the influence of peer factors on later externalizing behavior in emerging adulthood

OBJECTIVE

To examine group differences and predictors of externalizing behavior and substance use during the transition to emerging adulthood (i.e., ages 18-25) among survivors of childhood cancer and comparison peers.

METHODS

Peer acceptance and social behavior were assessed in classrooms of 55 children (ages 8-15) during cancer treatment. Children with cancer, comparison peers (n = 60), and parents completed measures of externalizing behavior and/or substance use during an initial home visit and soon after participants turned 18.

RESULTS

At follow-up, survivors and peers exhibited similar externalizing behaviors and substance use, except peers were more likely to use marijuana. Substance use was associated with earlier peer acceptance and social behavior. Survivors who were older at diagnosis were at greater risk for later externalizing behavior and substance use.

CONCLUSIONS

Mean externalizing behaviors and substance use generally fell within normative ranges for both survivors and peers. Some survivors may benefit from interventions to reduce risk behavior.

Smoking and binge drinking among Canadian survivors of childhood and adolescent cancers: a comparative, population-based study

BACKGROUND

Objectives of this study were to describe the prevalence of smoking and binge drinking among survivors of childhood and adolescent cancer compared to controls who had never had cancer, and to identify factors associated with these behaviors.

PROCEDURE

Data came from a national, multi-centre, population-based study of survivors of childhood and adolescent cancer (n = 1,263) aged 16 to 37 years and an age and gender matched control group (n = 1,422). Logistic regression analyses were performed to determine the likelihood and predictors of current smoking and binge drinking.

RESULTS

Survivors were less likely to be current smokers (OR(adj) = 0.65, 95% CI = 0.54-0.77) and binge drinkers (OR(adj) = 0.66, 95% CI = 0.55-0.78) than the controls. Still, a substantial proportion of survivors reported smoking (23%) and binge drinking (25%). Survivors' smoking and binge drinking did not vary substantially by the clinical factors assessed. Survivors who received therapy associated with cardiac and/or pulmonary toxicity were as likely to smoke as non-exposed survivors. For both the survivors and controls current smoking and binge drinking were associated with lower education and higher reported stress. Binge drinking was also associated with being male and life dissatisfaction in both groups.

CONCLUSIONS

This study indicates a need to reduce smoking and binge drinking among survivors of childhood and adolescent cancer and to design interventions addressing the underlying reasons for adopting unhealthy behaviors despite their risk for late effects. We identified factors related to smoking and binge drinking among survivors: being male, lower educational attainment, life dissatisfaction and high stress, which should help inform intervention development.

Alcohol consumption patterns and risk factors among childhood cancer survivors compared to siblings and general population peers

AIMS

This study describes alcohol consumption among adult survivors of pediatric cancer compared to sibling controls and a national sample of healthy peers. Risk factors for heavy drinking among survivors are described.

DESIGN, SETTING AND PARTICIPANTS

Cross-sectional data were utilized from the Childhood Cancer Survivor Study including adult survivors of pediatric cancer (n = 10 398) and a sibling cohort (n = 3034). Comparison data were drawn from the National Alcohol Survey (n = 4774).

MEASUREMENT

Alcohol consumption, demographic, cancer diagnosis, treatment and psychosocial factors were measured.

FINDINGS

Compared to peers, survivors were slightly less likely to be risky [adjusted odds ratio (ORadj) = 0.9; confidence interval (CI) 0.8-1.0] and heavy drinkers (ORadj = 0.8; CI 0.7-0.9) and more likely to be current drinkers. Compared to siblings, survivors were less likely to be current, risky and heavy drinkers. Risk factors for survivors' heavy drinking included being age 18-21 years (ORadj = 2.0; 95% CI 1.5-2.6), male (ORadj = 2.1; 95% CI 1.8-2.6), having high school education or less (ORadj = 3.4; 95% CI 2.7-4.4) and drinking initiation before age 14 (ORadj = 6.9; 95% CI 4.4-10.8). Among survivors, symptoms of depression, anxiety or somatization, fair or poor self-assessed health, activity limitations and anxiety about cancer were associated with heavy drinking. Cognitively compromising treatment, brain tumors and older age at diagnosis were protective.

CONCLUSIONS

Adult survivors of childhood cancer show only a modest reduction in alcohol consumption compared to peers despite their more vulnerable health status. Distress and poorer health are associated with survivor heavy drinking. Screening for alcohol consumption should be instituted in long-term follow-up care and interventions among survivors and siblings should be established to reduce risk for early drinking.

Relationship between physical disabilities or long-term health problems and health risk behaviors or conditions among US high school students

BACKGROUND

This study explores the relationship between self-reported physical disabilities or long-term health problems and health risk behaviors or adverse health conditions (self-reported engagement in violent behaviors, attempted suicide, cigarette smoking, alcohol and other drug use, sexual activity, physical activity, dietary behaviors, self-reported overweight [based on height and weight], physical health, and mental health) among US high school students.

METHODS

Data were from the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention's 2005 national Youth Risk Behavior Survey, a cross-sectional paper-and-pencil survey collected from a representative sample of public and private high school students (grades 9 through 12) in the United States.

RESULTS

Significantly more students with physical disabilities or long-term health problems than without described their health as fair or poor and reported being in a physical fight, being forced to have sexual intercourse, feeling sad or hopeless, seriously considering and attempting suicide, cigarette smoking, using alcohol and marijuana, engaging in sexual activity, using computers 3 or more hours per day, and being overweight (for all, p < or = .05). For none of the health risk behaviors analyzed were the rates significantly lower among students with physical disabilities or long-term health problems than among other students.

CONCLUSIONS

Young people who live with physical disabilities or long-term health problems may be at greater risk for poor health outcomes. Public health and school health programs, with guidance from health care providers, need to work with these adolescents and their families to develop and implement appropriate interventions, with particular emphasis on promoting mental health.

Education and health promotion in adolescent and young adult cancer survivors

The increasing numbers of long-term adolescent and young adult cancer survivors and their well-established risk of cancer-related morbidity strongly support the need for effective health promotion programs that motivate and sustain positive lifestyle changes. To date, the priority of these initiatives has been relatively low as only a handful of studies have been organized that prospectively evaluate lifestyle interventions and health education curricula with these aims. To effectively integrate lifestyle interventions into pediatric oncology care, prioritization and funding of health promotion research efforts must be comparable to that of disease control in frontline cancer trials.

Challenges after curative treatment for childhood cancer and long-term follow up of survivors

Childhood cancer survivors are at increased risk of serious morbidity, premature mortality, and diminished health status. Proactive and anticipatory risk-based health care of survivors and healthy lifestyles can reduce these risks. In this article, the authors first briefly discuss four common problems of survivors: neurocognitive dysfunction, cardiovascular disease, infertility and gonadal dysfunction, and psychosocial problems. Second, the authors discuss the concept of risk-based care, promote the use of recently developed evidence-based guidelines, describe current care in the United States, Canada, and the Netherlands, and articulate a model for shared survivor care that aims to optimize life long health of survivors and improve two-way communication between the cancer center and the primary care physician.

Health behaviours in childhood cancer survivors: a systematic review

AIM

To review (1) prevalence and predictors of risk behaviours especially smoking and (2) values of interventions to reduce risk behaviours in childhood cancer survivors.

METHOD

A systematic search of four databases (OVID Medline (1966 to May week 2, 2006), CINAHL, EMBASE, and Pubmed (US Library of Medicine and National Institute of Health)) for articles published between January 1990 and May 2006.

RESULTS

Twenty-three eligible articles. Incidence of risk behaviours are comparable with, or lower than the general population and controls. Socio-demographic (age, socio-economic status, diagnosis, ethnic group) and psychological variables (perceived vulnerability) predict risk behaviour. Improved knowledge and awareness of vulnerability have been found after interventions, but no changes in health behaviours.

CONCLUSION

This review illustrates an optimistic picture of low participation in substance use amongst survivors, although based mainly on smoking. However, smoking might not be the major problem for survivors and attention must also be directed to other health behaviours including exercise and healthy diet.

Long-term follow-up of people who have survived cancer during childhood

Substantial improvements in survival after treatment for malignant disease in childhood are leading to a rapidly increasing number of long-term survivors, many of whom are now adults. However, late chronic adverse effects of treatment are common, and have potentially severe effects on survivors' future physical, cognitive, or psychosocial health. The aim of long-term follow-up is to facilitate timely diagnosis and appropriate management of late adverse effects, thereby reducing the frequency of severe complications. Although the delivery of long-term follow-up care varies substantially--particularly in terms of who provides it, where, and how--recognition of the importance of appropriate multidisciplinary care and cross-speciality care is increasing, especially for adolescent and adult survivors of cancer during childhood. Several models of long-term follow-up care have been developed to address this need. This review discusses the present provision of long-term follow-up, and summarises information that might facilitate design and implementation of future models of long-term follow-up care.

The risk of secondary malignancies over 30 years after the treatment of non-Hodgkin lymphoma

BACKGROUND

Survivors of non-Hodgkin lymphoma (NHL) are at increased risk for developing secondary malignancies. For the current study, the authors quantitated this risk in a group of NHL survivors over 30 years of follow-up.

METHODS

Standardized incidence ratios (observed-to-expected [O/E] ratio) and absolute excess risk of secondary malignancies were assessed in 77,876 patients who were diagnosed with NHL between 1973 and 2001 from centers that participated in the National Cancer Institute's Surveillance, Epidemiology, and End Results Program.

RESULTS

There were 5638 patients who developed secondary malignancies, significantly more than the endemic rate (O/E, 1.14; P < .001). Overall, irradiated patients had a similar risk of secondary malignancies compared with unirradiated patients (relative risk, 1.04; 95% confidence interval, 0.98-1.10; P = .21). Irradiated patients had excess risk for sarcomas, breast cancers, and mesothelioma compared with unirradiated survivors (P < .05). Patients age <25 years at the time of their NHL diagnosis had the highest relative increased risk (no radiation: O/E, 2.1; P < .05; radiation: O/E, 4.51; P < .05). Overall, no statistical difference was observed for secondary cancer incidence between females and males (O/E, 1.12 vs. 1.15, respectively). Female survivors of NHL were less likely to develop breast cancer than the general population (O/E, 0.85; P < .05), but women age <25 years at the time of their NHL diagnosis were more likely to develop breast cancer (no radiation: O/E, 2.1; P < .05; radiation: O/E, 4.51; P < .05).

CONCLUSIONS

The overall risk of secondary malignancies was increased for NHL survivors and varied according to age at NHL diagnosis, gender, and treatment.