649 Smoking Cessation as A Variable Risk Factor in Head and Neck Cancer

Abstract

Abstract Aim Smoking is the leading cause of preventable death and disability worldwide and is a well understood risk factor in a number of diseases, including cancers of the head and neck. In 2019 over half of UK smokers reported interest in quitting, however, continue to do so. We assessed referrals made to the cessation service by the Ear Nose & Throat (ENT) department across the health board with the aim of raising awareness and improving smoking cessation referrals. Method Working with the smoking cessation team, we retrospectively assessed the clinical information of all patients referred by ENT over an 8-month period during 2019. The results of which, were presented departmentally with the goal of raising awareness of the service. Posters were also created detailing the referral process to aid junior doctors on surgical wards. Data was then re-audited over the subsequent 9-month period. Results Initially, 33 patients were referred over the first 8-month period, averaging 4 per month with 44% of patients already having laryngeal cancer. After our interventions, the total number of referrals increased with 74 over the 9-month period, averaging 8 referrals per month with 28% of patients having laryngeal cancer association. Conclusions Overall, there was a significant 135% increase in the number of referrals made, both cancer and non-cancer. The increase made in monthly referrals suggests a sustainable change. The percentage decrease of cancer patients referred and overall increase in number of referrals, represents the reduction of smoking being a risk factor of developing laryngeal cancer in ENT patients.