Health-Related Quality of Life, Comorbidities, and Lifestyle Behaviors Among Survivors of Obesity-Related and Non-Obesity-Related Cancer Types

Abstract

Simple Summary Obesity is a well-established risk factor for 13 cancer types, whose incidence has risen over the past 20 years. Yet few studies have explored obesity associated cancers (ORC) survivors’ experiences, particularly in Hispanic/Latino communities. This study examined health-related quality of life (HRQoL), comorbidities, and lifestyle behaviors among adult cancer survivors living in Puerto Rico with an ORC compared with those who had other cancers. Using survey data from 569 participants enrolled in a study of cancer survivorship in Puerto Rico, we found that ORC survivors were, on average, older and more likely to be female. We also observed differences in smoking status between ORC and non-ORC survivors. In addition, older ORC survivors reported better emotional and physical well-being than younger survivors, and men with ORCs were less likely to report moderate or exceeded moderate alcohol use than men with non-ORCs. Further research is needed to inform culturally responsive care aimed at improving cancer survivorship among Hispanic/Latino cancer survivors.