Abstract
Introduction: In our heart transplant program, drugs (marijuana) alcohol and smoking are not allowed. Recidivism for drugs, alcohol, and smoking in heart transplant patients is not firmly established as many reported surveys are not anonymous. Anonymity allows patients to freely admit indulgence in these frowned upon activities. We performed an anonymous survey for patients greater than 1 year after transplant to assess their actual use of drugs, alcohol, and smoking. Methods: Between December 2016 and May 2018, we administered surveys to 104 patients more than 1-year post transplant. Patients directly entered their answers into a handheld computer so as to maintain anonymity. The survey included questions on use of drugs (marijuana), alcohol and smoking; and whether they quit within 6 months prior to transplant. Other questions included activity/quantity of use after transplant. Results: Of 24/104 patients who smoked prior to surgery, only 2 returned to smoking and 1 started smoking after heart transplant. For alcohol use, 48/104 had a history of drinking alcohol prior to transplant. 59/104 patients stated that they drank alcohol after transplant, averaging only 0-3 drinks per week, and usually beginning after 6 months post-transplant. In terms of marijuana, 8/104 smoked prior to heart transplant. Post-transplant, 12 patients used marijuana, mostly due to pain relief and recreation. Most patients (83.3%) began to use marijuana beginning 12 months post-transplant. Conclusion: In an anonymous survey of heart transplant patients more than 1-year post-transplant, initiation and recidivism to smoking and marijuana is low with renewal of social drinking post-transplant being common. This survey reveals real-life social activities of heart transplant patients.
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