Health behaviors (HBs) among head and neck cancer (HNC) survivors.

e24044 Background: HNC affects more than 59,000 Americans annually and is mediated by HBs both in terms of etiology and long term outcomes. Health behaviors in this population, however, have not been well described. This project describes HBs as a first step in developing appropriate interventions to improve health and, ultimately, outcomes among HNC survivors. Methods: Potential participants were identified through the tumor registry at the Abramson Cancer Center as well as affiliated sites. Eligibility included: a) Diagnosis and treatment of HNC; b) Aged 18 to 70 years; c) more than 1 year post-diagnosis; d) Confirmation of human papillomavirus (HPV) status; e) Ability to understand written English. Potential participants were sent an explanation of the study, informed consent, a self-reported questionnaire, and a self-addressed stamped envelope for return of materials. HBs included items recommended by Glasgow et al. assessing diet, aerobic activity, strength-flexibility, leisure time activity, smoking, alcohol consumption, and access to a physician. Results: 451 individuals were found to be eligible and approached. 102 (23%) agreed to participate and usable data were collected from 93 participants. The sample was predominantly white (96%), male (80%), middle aged (M = 59 yrs), married (82%), college educated (63%), and 63% reported an annual income of greater than $100,000. 74% were HPV positive. Although current smoking was rare (7%), historical use of tobacco was common (48%). Current alcohol use was also common (65%) with an average of 12 days per month in which alcohol was consumed. Participants reported an average of 2.1 drinks per day. Binge drinking was reported by 22% of those who drank, with an average of 3.5 binge drinking sessions per month. Scores on our measure of nutritional behavior range from 0-16 with lower scores indicating better nutrition. The sample mean was 7.1. According to body mass index (BMI) 59% were overweight or obese. With respect to the overall sample, 59% reported adequate aerobic exercise and 64% adequate strength and flexibility. In terms of leisure time activity, 18% would be classified as sedentary, 19% as moderately active, and 64% as active. All participants reported having a current primary care physician and 92% reported having had a physical examination in the previous 12 months. Conclusions: Binge drinking and BMI appear to be the most common negative HBs in this population, although there remain opportunities to improve dietary and exercise behaviors, as well.