New research strengthens the scientific case for quitting smoking after a cancer diagnosis. A large-scale study in South Korea found that cancer patients who continued smoking traditional cigarettes after diagnosis faced higher risks of cardiovascular diseases and death compared to those who quit.
Samsung Medical Center announced on Friday that a research team, including Professors Shin Dong-wook and Choi Hye-rim from Family Medicine, Professor Kim Hong-kwan from Thoracic and Esophageal Surgery, and Professor Kang Dan-bi from the Clinical Epidemiology Research Center, published their findings in the American Journal of Public Health. The study analyzed data from 46,834 smokers diagnosed with cancer between 2015 and 2022, using National Health Insurance Service records.
The study revealed that 37.2% of patients (17,418) continued smoking traditional cigarettes, 7.5% (3,507) switched to e-cigarettes, and 55.3% (25,909) quit smoking entirely. Notably, 64.2% (2,252) of those who switched to e-cigarettes were dual users, consuming both traditional and electronic cigarettes.
Over an average follow-up period of 4.2 years, researchers adjusted for factors such as age, gender, income, cancer type, treatment methods, pre-diagnosis smoking habits, and comorbidities. They found that those who quit smoking had an 8% lower overall mortality risk compared to those who continued smoking. The risk of major cardiovascular events, including heart attacks and strokes, was 36% lower for those who quit.
While these findings reinforce the importance of smoking cessation, they also acknowledge the challenges of enforcing abstinence among cancer patients who continue to smoke. The study suggests that e-cigarettes might serve as a viable alternative in such cases.
Interestingly, patients who switched to e-cigarettes showed a 16% lower overall mortality risk compared to those who continued smoking traditional cigarettes. Their risk of major cardiovascular events was also 28% lower. This aligns with recent shifts in U.S. perspectives, where e-cigarettes are increasingly viewed as potential smoking cessation aids.
However, the research team emphasized that complete cessation remains the most beneficial option. They cautioned about the risks of dual use and potential lung complications among e-cigarette users. The team stressed that while complete smoking cessation is crucial for cancer survivors, e-cigarettes could be considered as a harm reduction strategy for those unable to quit entirely.
In related news, Samsung Medical Center operates the Quality of Life Research Institute for Cancer Patients. This specialized organization aims to support cancer patients throughout their journey, from diagnosis to recovery. The institute provides comprehensive information and education, covering prevention strategies for high-risk groups, symptom management during treatment, and guidance for patients returning to their daily lives after treatment.
