Predictors of post-treatment smoking and drinking behavior of head and neck cancer survivors: results of a population-based survey

Predictors for smoking and alcohol drinking behavior were investigated in head and neck cancer survivors (HNCS) with survivorship of ≥6 months. 165 HNCS registered in a regional cancer registry and treated 2005–2014 were included. Patients completed a survey including the Fagerström Test for nicotine dependence and the Alcohol Use Disorders Identification Test. Smoking and drinking cessation rates were 51 and 13 %, respectively. Multinomial logistic regression analyses showed that male patients [odds ratio (OR) 35.4; confidence interval (CI) 7.5–168.1; p < 0.0001], single persons (OR 9.9; CI 2.5–40.0; p = 0.001), and younger patients (OR 1.1; CI 1.0–1.1; p = 0.002) had significantly higher probability to be current smokers. Male gender (OR 48.7; CI 5.0–470.7; p < 0.0001) and younger age (OR 1.1; CI 1.0–1.3; p = 0.003) were predictors of risky alcohol consumption. Male, young, and single smoking and/or drinking HNCS should be stimulated to take part in smoking and/or alcohol drinking cessation programs.