Association between cancer-related worry and intention to quit smoking among Turkish smokers: a cross-sectional study

Concerns about getting cancer may increase the desire to quit smoking in smokers. This study was conducted to determine the level of cancer worry in smokers and the relationship between cancer worry and intention to quit smoking. An online survey was administered to smokers aged 18 years and older without a history of cancer between January and February 2025. The questionnaire included questions about socio-demographic characteristics, the Fagerstrom Test for Nicotine Dependence (FTND), the Cancer Worry Scale (CWS) and the Smoking Cessation Intention Scale (SCIS). The mean age of the participants (n=321) was 33.72 years, and the majority were male (75.1%). Mean scores for FTND, CWS, and SBNS were 4.82±3.16, 15.69±5.02, and 28.11±8.39, respectively. High levels of cancer concern (CWS≥14) were found in 67.3% of smokers. A statistically significant, moderate positive correlation was found between CWS and SCIS scores (r=0.362, p<0.001). Participants' SCIS scores were significantly higher among individuals who were 30 years or older compared to younger participants, in married individuals compared to their unmarried counterparts, and in those with a high level of cancer worry compared to those with a low level of worry. Participants with a high cancer worry level were significantly more likely to think about quitting smoking in the next year than participants with a low worry level (p=0.027). The findings show the positive effect of increased cancer worry on the intention to quit smoking. Increased awareness about cancer may increase motivation to quit smoking.