Predictors of cancer risky and preventive behaviors among the Nebraska farmers population. Issue 2 (13th December 2022) - Watanabe‐Galloway, Shinobu
Abstract: Purpose: Previous studies on cancer risk among agricultural producers have focused on occupational exposures, with only a few studies examining behavioral factors. The aim of this study was to understand cancer risky and preventative behaviors among the large farming population in Nebraska. Methods: A statewide cross‐sectional study of farmers in Nebraska aged 19 and older was conducted in 2019 ( n = 782). Multivariable logistic regression was used to examine factors associated with being up to date on cancer screening and with cancer risky and preventive behaviors. Findings: The 93.68% of the Nebraska farmers population do not meet the daily recommended consumption of fruits and vegetables, and 70.14% reported regular alcohol consumption. The proportion of adults up to date on cancer screening was 79.57% for breast, 67.55% for cervical, 85.54% for colorectal, and 46.05% for skin cancers. Compared to women, men had a higher odds of heavy alcohol consumption (aOR 2.96, 95% CI 1.94–4.56) and ever smoking 100 or more cigarettes (aOR 1.66, 95% CI 1.03–2.73). The odds of being current with skin cancer screening was higher among those with higher incomes (aOR 1.77, 95% CI 1.06–3.01). Compared to men aged 50–64, the odds of being current with prostate cancer screening was higher among men aged 65–74 (aOR: 2.65, 95% CI 1.10–7.31) and 75 and older (aOR: 7.73, 95% CI 2.03–51.73). Conclusions: Disparities in cancer screening and risk and preventive behaviors exist among farmers in Nebraska. The study highlights a need for continuing efforts to improve preventive cancer behaviors targeted to the farming population.