Title:

Behaviors Associated with Cancer Risk and Prevalence of Family History among College Students

Cancer (CA) among adolescents and young adults (AYA) presents with unique biological characteristics and histological distributions that differ from children or older adults. CA incidence among AYA (15-39 years) is on the rise despite stable rates among other patient populations, and current literature lacks a consensus as to the etiology behind this trend. Behaviors and characteristics such as tobacco use, alcohol consumption, obesity, diet quality, and sedentary lifestyles have been linked to an increased risk of CA. This study aims to determine if AYA engage in these behaviors at a higher rate compared to previous years, increasing their risk for CA. This descriptive, cross-sectional study collected data between 2005-2023 from a convenience sample of undergraduate students ages 18-24 years enrolled in an entry-level, general education nutrition course at a large, northeastern university. Alcohol/tobacco/vape use, and self/family medical history were self-reported through an online survey (Qualtrics). Dietary intake was assessed via 3-day food records and online nutrient analysis software. Daily activity level (steps/day) was measured via research-grade pedometers. Height and weight were measured in duplicate after an overnight fast by research assistants. Most of the final sample (n=11600) were female (68.7%) and reported self/family history of CA (69.3%). Average BMI was 23.6±3.7 kg/m2, and 6.1% of students met criteria for obesity (≥30 kg/m2). Over half of the students (57.9%) reported binge drinking within the past 30 days. While a low proportion of students reported smoking cigarettes (6.5%), almost one in four (23.3%) of students reported using an electronic vape daily or almost daily. A low proportion of students met recommendations for fruit (21.6%), vegetable (22.3%) and fiber intake (16%). Most students (74.3%) were categorized as somewhat active, and 11.4% were sedentary-low active. This information has the potential to inform future interventions aiming to reduce modifiable CA risk factors among AYA.

Name

Comment*

Comments are viewable only by submitter

Captcha*