Family mental illness and physical abuse for predicting cannabis use among cancer survivors

Document Type

Conference Proceeding

Publication Date

5-28-2025

Publication Title

J Clin Oncol

Abstract

Background: Adults with a history of Adverse Childhood Experiences (ACEs) are more likely to engage in health-risk behaviors. While the link between ACEs and such behaviors has been well-studied in the general population, limited research focuses specifically on cancer survivors. This study explores the relationship between three specific ACEs—family mental illness, physical abuse, and sexual abuse—and cannabis use among cancer survivors. Methods: Using cross-sectional data from the 2020 Behavioral Risk Factor Surveillance System, we analyzed a sample of 7,896 cancer survivors aged 18 and older. The exposure variables included three ACEs: having a family member with a mental illness, experiencing physical abuse, and experiencing sexual abuse before the age of 18 dichotomized as yes/no. The outcome measure was cannabis use dichotomized as yes/no. Weighted multivariable logistic regression models were used to evaluate the association between ACEs and cannabis use adjusting for sociodemographic factors. Results: In this sample of cancer survivors, 15.5%, 23.6%, and 6.3% reported experiencing the three ACEs: mental illness in family members, physical abuse, and sexual abuse, respectively. Regarding cannabis use, 6.1% used cannabis. Adjusted models revealed that cancer survivors with a history of mental illness in family members had significantly higher odds of using cannabis (aOR: 2.38, 95% CI: 1.58–3.58). Survivors who reported physical abuse had higher odds of using cannabis (aOR: 1.74, 95% CI: 1.21–2.51). However, the adjusted models showed no statistically significant association between sexual abuse and cannabis use among cancer survivors. Conclusions: This study underscores the complex relationship between adverse childhood experiences and health behaviors in cancer survivors. Identifying ACEs such as family mental illness and physical abuse as significant factors influencing cannabis use highlights the importance of integrating trauma-informed care into survivorship programs. Addressing these underlying factors may improve health outcomes in this vulnerable population. Individuals with a history of ACEs may constitute a critical target group for preventive interventions designed to mitigate this risk and promote healthier behaviors.

Volume

43

First Page

e22616

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