Behavior
Cancer Risk Behaviors in Quito: A Cross-Sectional Survey of the Adult Population in 2024 Harold Alexander* Harold Alexander María Fernanda García Mateo Bernal Mellany Torres Jahel Castellanos Paula Pauta
Introduction: Cancer is a leading global health issue, with over 23 million new cases worldwide in 2019. Risk behaviors such as smoking, physical inactivity, alcohol misuse, and inadequate sun protection contribute to cancer development. Identifying these behaviors in specific populations is key for prevention. Quito, Ecuador, with its cultural and socioeconomic diversity, presents a unique setting for studying these factors. Between 1985 and 2017, over 93,000 new cancer cases were diagnosed in Quito, showing a rising trend. This study aims to assess cancer risk behaviors in the adult population of Quito between April and June 2024.
Methods: This observational, cross-sectional study was approved by an ethics committee, and participants provided electronic informed consent. A locally adapted, validated survey was based on the HINTS and BRFSS instruments, with additional questions tailored for the local context. Data were collected through social media and electronic platforms from adults residing in the Metropolitan District of Quito. Due to the convenience sampling, a descriptive analysis was conducted.
Results: A total of 405 surveys were analyzed. The median age was 29 years (IQR 22–42), with 64.4% of respondents being female. Regarding risk behaviors, 38.77% reported not drinking alcohol, while 39.26% consumed alcohol excessively at least once in the past month. Physical inactivity was reported by 16.30%, and 21.73% had smoked at least 100 cigarettes in their lifetime. Additionally, 48.15% had used e-cigarettes, 11.12% used sunscreen three or more times daily, and 27.16% had no sunburn in the past year.
Conclusion: The results highlight key cancer risk behaviors in Quito’s adult population, pointing to the need for targeted public health interventions. These findings will inform strategies to reduce cancer risks, promote prevention, and address health disparities in the community.
Keywords: Cancer risk behaviors, Quito, tobacco use, alcohol consumption, physical activity, public health.