Smoking cessation after the diagnosis of lung cancer

This review analyzed data collected from recent studies, and estimated the effect of smoking cessation after diagnosis on the outcome of lung cancer patients.

Smoking is known to increase the risk of developing lung cancer, as well as other life threatening medical conditions. Quitting smoking after the diagnosis of lung cancer is assumed to benefit patients. This is logical, since tobacco smoke abstinence should slow the growth rate of the tumor, and reduce the risk of several serious co-morbidities (other conditions such as heart attacks and strokes). However, whether smoking cessation after diagnosis of lung cancer truly improves outcomes, in which patients, and to what extent, has never been systematically reviewed.

10 studies, including a total of more than 1500 patients, were reviewed in this article.

For non-small cell lung cancer (NSCLC) patients, 5 studies were included in this review. Estimations from the combined data suggest that continued smoking was associated with a significant, almost 3-fold increase in the risk of mortality (death from any cause, not just from the cancer). One of the studies reviewed noted an 86% increase in the risk of cancer recurrence (return of the original cancer).

For small cell lung cancer (SCLC) patients, 5 additional studies were included in this review. Estimations from the combined data suggest that continued smoking was associated with more than a 4-fold increase in the risk of developing an additional tumor, and an 86% increase in the risk of mortality.

This review concluded that smoking cessation after the diagnosis of lung cancer decreases the risk of recurrence and improves survival in both NSCLC and SCLC patients.

All of the studies reviewed measured smoking and smoking cessation on the basis of patient reports. None of the studies provided data on cancer specific mortality (deaths directly as a result of the cancer, excluding other causes), but rather only on all cause mortality.

Consult with your physician on the different smoking cessation programs and medications available.