Problem: Adolescent survivors of cancer face an increased risk of chronic health conditions that can be improved by healthy behaviors. The purpose of this review is to synthesize the extent/prevalence of health behaviors (physical activity [PA], diet, human papillomavirus [HPV] vaccination, alcohol use, smoking, marijuana use, and unprotected sex) compared to age-matched peers and factors associated with those behaviors.
Eligibility criteria: Four databases (PubMed, EMBASE, PsycINFO, and CINAHL) were searched for peer-reviewed primary studies published since 2000 including adolescents aged 11-20 years-old, who had completed cancer treatments. Studies reporting at least one behavior were included.
Sample: Of 1979 articles reviewed, 27 studies reporting any of the following health behaviors were included: PA, diet, HPV vaccination, alcohol use, smoking, marijuana use, or unprotected sex.
Results: Adolescent survivors of cancer engaged less in health risk behaviors (alcohol use, smoking, marijuana use, and unprotected sex) or health-promoting behaviors (PA, healthy diet, and HPV vaccination) compared to age-matched peers. Their health behaviors were associated with psychosocial factors including emotional discomfort (e.g., feeling depressed or nervous) and influence of others (family, friends, and healthcare providers).
Conclusions: Although health risk behaviors in adolescent survivors of cancer are not as prevalent as in their peers, the survivors' low engagement in health-promoting behaviors including PA, diet, and HPV vaccination is concerning.
Implications: More research is needed to develop and evaluate interventions to improve health-promoting behaviors in adolescent survivors of cancer by strengthening or facilitating psychosocial resources.
Keywords: Adolescents; Health behavior; Health risk behavior; Health-promoting behavior; Survivors of cancer.
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