Differences in Beliefs and Behaviors Related to COVID-19 Prevention Among Adult Current and Former Smokers and With and Without A Cancer Diagnosis

Abstract

Purpose Study aims included assessing differences in beliefs/behaviors about COVID-19 prevention among current and former smokers with and without cancer. Design A cross-sectional survey about COVID-19 beliefs/behaviors was administered from June 2020 to January 2021. Setting Survey conducted online via Qualtrics from June 2020 to January 2021. Subjects Participants were current (n = 101) and former (n = 102) smokers with and without cancer. Measures Questions were related to beliefs about efficacy of and engagement in behaviors for COVID-19 prevention. Results Results from logistic regressions displayed that individuals with cancer were more likely to indicate using hand sanitizer with at least 60% alcohol was ineffective ( OR = .12, 95% CI: [.02, .65]) and avoided public transportation ( OR = 1.84, 95% CI: [1.04, 3.28]) compared to those without cancer. Former smokers were more likely to indicate taking vitamin C was effective ( OR = .45, 95% CI: [.22, .93]) and rinsing your mouth with salt water ( OR = 1.89, 95% CI: [1.02, 3.50]) was ineffective compared to current smokers. Current smokers were more likely to indicate not smoking was effective compared to former smokers ( OR = 2.19, 95% CI: [1.13, 4.24]). Conclusions Counters to COVID-19 misinformation may need to be tailored to different at-risk groups based on differential beliefs and behaviors.