Research from Kathryn E. Weaver, Ph.D., M.P.H., an assistant professor in the Department of Social Sciences and Health Policy at Wake Forest Baptist Medical Center, got a second wind recently when it was cited by news outlets covering the story of Michael Douglas. The actor, who recovered from stage four throat cancer earlier this year, has since been photographed smoking.
Weaver’s research set out to characterize patterns and context of smoking among recently diagnosed cancer patients and their family caregivers. She found that a substantial number of cancer patients continue to smoke after their cancer diagnosis which is concerning, but not necessarily surprising.
“Smoking is a very addictive behavior and it can be difficult to quit smoking,” Weaver said. “Many of our cancer patients do want to quit smoking and have tried many times in the past, but have been unsuccessful.”
Read more about Michael Douglas’ struggle: CBS and MSNBC
Read the cancer diagnosis news release here.
Visit the Comprehensive Cancer Center.