Quitting Early After Cancer Diagnosis Significantly Improves Survival
A recent study published in JAMA Oncology highlights the significant benefits of early smoking cessation for cancer patients. Researchers at MD Anderson Cancer Center found that quitting smoking within six months of a cancer diagnosis led to substantial improvements in long-term survival. The study followed over 4,500 cancer patients who participated in an evidence-based smoking cessation program, with the majority receiving counseling via telemedicine and pharmacotherapy.
The results showed that patients who quit smoking within six months of their diagnosis had a 26% lower risk of mortality compared to those who continued smoking. The greatest survival benefit was seen in patients who quit within three months of diagnosis, adding nearly two years to their life expectancy compared to those who did not quit. Even patients who quit between six months and five years post-diagnosis saw improved survival rates.
These findings strongly support the integration of smoking cessation into standard oncology care, emphasizing the importance of offering cessation support early in the cancer treatment process. Providing patients with access to these programs can significantly extend survival and enhance overall treatment outcomes.
For clinicians and practice professionals, this research underscores the need to prioritize tobacco treatment and actively support patients in their efforts to quit smoking as part of comprehensive cancer care. Interprofessional development in tobacco cessation strategies is vital for fostering collaborative care, ensuring that all team members are equipped to guide patients through successful quitting interventions.
These findings align with MOQC’s vision and mission by reinforcing the importance of providing the absolute best care for patients and their loved ones, including essential tobacco cessation support (https://moqc.org/initiatives/clinical/tobacco/). MOQC strives to advance the success of interdisciplinary teams that improve the quality and value of cancer care, with tobacco cessation being a key factor in optimizing patient outcomes and enhancing survivorship. By focusing on interprofessional development (https://moqc.org/eventspace/), MOQC aims to ensure that clinicians are prepared to integrate tobacco cessation into comprehensive cancer care for every patient. For more information on tobacco cessation resources and to learn about past and upcoming interprofessional development events, visit the MOQC website at www.moqc.org.
The full publication can be viewed at https://jamanetwork.com/journals/jamaoncology/fullarticle/2825372