Search resultsContribution of Family History of Head and Neck Cancer and Associated Risk Factors: Analysis of an Internet Based Risk Assessment Tool.
PURPOSE/OBJECTIVE(S): Common risk factors for head and neck cancer (HNC) include tobacco and alcohol use, HPV and EBV infection, and certain occupational exposures, including radiation. Genetics also play a role, though these effects are multifactorial and are likely not well appreciated in the lay population. We sought to understand the association between family history (FH) of HNC and other personal risk factors for cancer and hypothesized that those with a FH of HNC would be more likely to use tobacco and alcohol.
MATERIALS/METHODS: Reduce My Risk is an online tool available on OncoLink.org. Voluntary participants input information related to demographics, FH, risk-factors, and risk-associated behavior and then receive personalized information regarding their cancer risk. Use of collected data was IRB approved. Differences between respondents with vs without FH of HNC were analyzed using chi-square test and adjusted via logistic regression.
RESULTS: 25179 responses were analyzed; 580 (2.3%) reported FH of HNC. Of these, median age was 30 (Range 18 - 72), 66.7% were female, 79.5% from North America, 83.1% White, 78.4% had at least some college, and 68.0% household income > $45,000. Comparing those with FH of HNC to those without, there were no significant differences in education, household income, or home setting. Those with FH of HNC were more likely to be "light" drinkers (1-7 per week), obese, and to have significant secondhand smoke exposure (Table). There were no significant differences in cigarette, marijuana, or "exotic" smoking, or use of smokeless tobacco products. (Table). There were also no differences in UV, radiation, or occupational exposures, except for hydrocarbons (OR 1.7, CI 0.99-2.74, P = 0.041).
CONCLUSION: Those with a FH of HNC were more likely to have secondhand smoke exposure but were not more likely to use tobacco products themselves, suggesting differences in inter-generational behavior. Those with FH also reported increased non-modifiable risks. Limitations of this work include a convenience sample frame that is disproportionately white and high income, and results may not be applicable to a more diverse population. Future work should explore targeted intervention for those with a FH of HNC to educate on risk of external exposures and promote preventive behaviors.