Lifestyle and 30-day complications to surgery for colorectal cancer

This study aimed to identify lifestyle factors with impact on 30-day mortality and complications after surgery for a first time colorectal adenocarcinoma. All patients in Denmark within a 20 month period were registered in a nationwide database; 57% were included in the analysis. Logistic regression was used, adjusted for age, sex and disease- or treatment related factors. BMI >= 30 kg/m(2) increased the risk of complications in general (CIG), impaired wound healing (IWH), deep wound infection and mortality. Smoking increased the risk of CIG, IWH and mortality. Alcohol increased the risk of IWH and anastomotic leakage. Self perceived physical fitness at or below average increased the risk of CIG, thrombosis, and mortality. The population attributable risk was 23% for complications and 64% for mortality. The results suggest that lifestyle factors are important for the course of the 30-day postoperative period. Lifestyle factors should be considered in future prediction models for outcome after colorectal cancer surgery.