Pain may lead to increased cigarette and cannabis use in cancer survivors
February 11, 2025 by news-medical.net
Pain may lead to increased cigarette and cannabis use in cancer survivors
Pain in cancer survivors is linked to increased use of cigarettes and cannabis, leading to more treatment side effects and poorer health. Research shows a connection between pain and non-opioid substance use among cancer survivors, impacting their quality of life, mental and physical health. Addressing both pain and substance use together is crucial in cancer care, as they can reinforce each other in a harmful cycle. Smoking or using substances for relief can reduce treatment effectiveness and raise cancer recurrence risk. This emphasizes the importance of holistic support for cancer survivors in managing pain and substance use for better outcomes and quality of life.
