A comparative study of health behaviors in adult male cancer survivors and the general male population in Korea: from the Korea national health and nutrition examination survey VII-VIII (2016-2021).

backgroundAs healthy living becomes crucial for cancer survivors, discussing the health risk behaviors of male cancer survivors, who are more prone to such behaviors, is essential. This study compared health-related behaviors and obesity among male cancer survivors and the general male population in Korea.

methodsThis cross-sectional, matched case-control study used data from the Korea National Health and Nutrition Examination Survey (KNHANES). Of 11,760 participants, 349 cancer survivors and 1,047 controls were matched by propensity scores. Logistic regression evaluated differences in BMI, smoking, alcohol consumption, physical activity, and diet.

resultsCancer survivors had lower odds of being overweight and higher odds of being former smokers and drinkers than controls. No significant differences were found in physical activity or diet. However, the middle-aged and older cancer survivors were more likely to be overweight and obese, respectively. The middle-aged survivors were also more likely to be former smokers, while the older survivors were more likely to be former drinkers.

conclusionCancer survivors were more likely to have a normal weight, be past smokers, or be former drinkers compared with controls. Education on cancer prevention is required to improve health-related behaviors and prevent secondary cancer.