Impact of a nutrition and physical activity intervention (ENRICH: Exercise and Nutrition Routine Improving Cancer Health) on health behaviors of cancer survivors and carers: a pragmatic randomized controlled trial

Applications of wearable activity monitors for prostate cancer survivors: A systematic scoping review

BACKGROUND

Wearable technology is used to monitor and motivate physical activity (PA) and provides continuous, objective PA and sleep data outside the clinical setting. We reviewed the literature to understand how wearables are integrated into prostate cancer (PC) investigations in order to identify current practices, gaps, and research opportunities.

METHODS

We conducted a literature search for articles using wearables, among PC survivors published between 2012 and 2022. We extracted study details, interventions and outcomes, participant baseline characteristics, and device characteristics and grouped them by study type: randomized control trials (RCTs) and non-randomized studies.

RESULTS

Of 354 articles screened, 44 met eligibility criteria (23 RCTs, and 21 non-randomized). 89% used wearables to monitor PA metrics, 11%, sleep metrics, and 6.8%, both. Most studies involved exercise (70% RCTs, 9% non-randomized studies) or lifestyle interventions (30% RCTs, 9% non-randomized studies). Intervention delivery methods included personalized computer-based (48%), in-person (e.g., trainer) (20%), and education web or print-based (20%). Interventions occurred at the participant's home (48%) or at a gym (20%). 57% of the studies evaluated the feasibility and acceptability of the wearable as an activity-measuring device or as part of a remotely delivered computer-based intervention. Studies used wearables to monitor adherence to PA interventions, motivate behavior change, to assess patient outcomes (e.g., patient function, quality of life, mood), or as data collection tools.

CONCLUSIONS

Wearables are primarily being used to assess daily activity and monitor adherence to exercise interventions in clinical studies involving PC survivors. Findings suggest that they are feasible for use in this population. More research is needed to understand how to integrate wearables into routine clinical care, expand their use to predict clinical outcomes, or to deliver tailored interventions for PC survivors.

Identification of weight loss interventions for translation among endometrial cancer survivors: A RE-AIM analysis

Interventions for obesity-related cancers that combine nutrition and physical activity for weight loss exist; however, their application to survivors of endometrial cancer is unknown. Furthermore, little is known about pre-implementation perceptions of existing programs from a variety of interested persons (physicians, researchers) who may be part of the implementation team. Adapting an existing intervention rather than developing a new intervention may speed the translational lag time as long as intervention characteristics and fit within the delivery system are considered during the planning phase. To describe the process of determining the core elements of obesity-related interventions for cancer survivors and determine which one might be best delivered by an urban healthcare system that predominantly serves individuals who live in rural areas of Virginia and West Virginia. A pragmatic review of the literature was conducted via PubMed and Google Scholar with broad search terms of cancer survivor AND weight loss AND health intervention. Identified interventions were scored related to the Practical, Robust Implementation and Sustainability Model-which is an extension of RE-AIM framework to guide the understanding of who, what, where, when, and how the intervention was conducted. Intervention characteristics are reported. In addition, ratings from three independent reviewers on the validated 5-point Likert scale of an intervention's acceptability, appropriateness, and feasibility in the intended delivery system were collected and summarized. Twelve interventions were identified with an average sample size of 241(±195) and a range of 48-683 participants. Target populations included survivors of colorectal, breast, and endometrial cancers as well as general cancer survivors and included both men and women or only women. Most participants (74%) identified as white/Caucasian and average age ranged from 47.1 to 65.9 years. Program duration ranged from 4 weeks to 18 months, with an average duration of 32 weeks. Intervention dosage ranged from three times a week to once a month. Intervention acceptability, appropriateness, and feasibility had average and standard deviation ratings of 3.52(±0.46), 3.41(±0.45), and 3.21(±0.46), respectively, out of 5. The four interventions with the highest combined acceptable, appropriate, and feasible scores are being considered for potential use as an obesity-related intervention for survivors of endometrial cancer. Future work is needed to determine relevant adaptations and efficacy among survivors of endometrial cancer with obesity. Our approach may be beneficial for other interventionists aiming to speed intervention development and implementation.

The Use of Wearable Devices in Oncology Patients: A Systematic Review

INTRODUCTION

The aim of this systematic review was to summarize the current literature on wearable technologies in oncology patients for the purpose of prognostication, treatment monitoring, and rehabilitation planning.

METHODS

A search was conducted in Medline ALL, Cochrane Central Register of Controlled Trials, Embase, Emcare, CINAHL, Scopus, and Web of Science, up until February 2022. Articles were included if they reported on consumer grade and/or non-commercial wearable devices in the setting of either prognostication, treatment monitoring or rehabilitation.

RESULTS

We found 199 studies reporting on 18 513 patients suitable for inclusion. One hundred and eleven studies used wearable device data primarily for the purposes of rehabilitation, 68 for treatment monitoring, and 20 for prognostication. The most commonly-reported brands of wearable devices were ActiGraph (71 studies; 36%), Fitbit (37 studies; 19%), Garmin (13 studies; 7%), and ActivPAL (11 studies; 6%). Daily minutes of physical activity were measured in 121 studies (61%), and daily step counts were measured in 93 studies (47%). Adherence was reported in 86 studies, and ranged from 40% to 100%; of these, 63 (74%) reported adherence in excess of 80%.

CONCLUSION

Wearable devices may provide valuable data for the purposes of treatment monitoring, prognostication, and rehabilitation. Future studies should investigate live-time monitoring of collected data, which may facilitate directed interventions.

Designing viable, durable physical activity programs for cancer survivors: reflections from program participants and organizational leaders

PURPOSE

Despite recommendations for cancer survivors to participate in routine physical activity (PA), offering programs that fit both survivors' needs and sponsoring organizations' resources remains a challenge. The purpose of this study is to explore the perspectives of cancer survivors and organizational stakeholders with the intent of developing PA peer-led programs that organizations can implement into their programming.

METHODS

This study explored cancer survivors' (n = 11) and cancer care organizational stakeholders' (n = 27) perspectives on the design and feasibility of PA programs targeted for cancer survivors. Semi-structured interview guides were developed for survivors and stakeholders; interviews lasted approximately 30 min. Two analysts used a thematic analysis approach and independently conducted a line-by-line coding of each transcript. With guidance from a senior analyst, the codes were collapsed into themes and subthemes.

RESULTS

The qualitative analysis of the interview data resulted in seven major themes relating to PA program development and success. Survivor-related themes included the following: (1) developing PA programs based on cancer survivors' characteristics and experiences; (2) perceived value and importance of accessible, face-to-face instruction; (3) ensuring success based on physical abilities and limitations of the survivor; and (4) the value of physician recommendation for PA participation. Organization-related themes included the following: (1) incorporating participant and community input into program offerings; (2) program feasibility and sustainability; (3) incorporating organizational experience when adopting new program initiatives.

CONCLUSION

These findings highlight the challenges of developing viable PA programs for cancer survivors and may guide organizations in future program development and implementation.

A Systematic Review of Dietary Interventions for Cancer Survivors and Their Families or Caregivers

Family or caregiver engagement has the potential to support healthy dietary changes among cancer survivors. However, little is known about these family- or caregiver-involved dietary interventions and their effects. This systematic review aimed to identify the behavior change techniques (BCTs) used in dietary interventions for cancer survivors and their families or caregivers and to synthesize intervention effects on dietary and health outcomes. Following the PRISMA guidelines, we conducted systematic searches in three databases and identified 12 trials (16 peer-reviewed manuscripts) for inclusion in this review. Data were extracted from these manuscripts and the BCT taxonomy was used to identify the BCTs. A total of 38 BCTs were identified from 12 trials, 13 of which were used in at least half of the 12 trials. Ten studies reported significant intervention effects on health outcomes (e.g., adiposity) and six suggested significant improvements in dietary behaviors (e.g., fruit and vegetable intake). Overall, this review found that family- or caregiver-involved interventions for cancer survivors significantly improved dietary and health outcomes. Future research should identify BCTs particularly for dietary changes and develop effective dyadic strategies to facilitate diet-related interactions between survivors and their families or caregivers to enhance their engagement in healthy diets.

Effects of Walking Combined With Resistance Band Exercises on Alleviating Cancer-Related Fatigue: A Systematic Review and Meta-analysis of Randomized Controlled Trials

BACKGROUND

Cancer-related fatigue (CRF) is a common symptom, and exercise has shown potential in alleviating CRF. However, there is a need for diverse exercise options tailored to individual patient needs.

OBJECTIVE

To evaluate the overall effects of a combined walking and resistance band exercise intervention in relieving CRF among cancer patients through randomized controlled trials.

METHODS

Comprehensive searches were conducted in multiple databases to identify relevant studies up until March 2023. Inclusion criteria required the intervention to involve walking combined with elastic band training, with a clear exercise protocol description. The primary outcome was CRF, and secondary outcomes included walking steps, distance, mood distress, and quality of life. Standardized mean differences (SMDs) with 95% confidence intervals (CIs) were calculated using random-effects models.

RESULTS

Ten trials were included. The intervention group showed significant improvements in CRF (SMD, -0.40; 95% CI, -0.60 to -0.20), mood distress (SMD, -0.30; 95% CI, -0.53 to -0.07), and daily walking steps (SMD, 0.52; 95% CI, 0.07-0.96) compared with the control group. Although the 6-Minute Walk Test and quality of life did not show significant differences, a trend toward improvement was observed in the intervention group. Adverse events related to the intervention were infrequent.

CONCLUSION

A combined walking and resistance band exercise intervention can effectively alleviate CRF and improve mood distress and daily walking steps among cancer patients.

IMPLICATIONS FOR PRACTICE

This exercise option may provide an additional strategy to manage CRF. Further research is needed to explore the optimal exercise prescription for individual patients.

Technology-based self-management interventions for women with breast cancer: a systematic review

PURPOSE

Since technology-based interventions can facilitate convenient access to healthcare for women with breast cancer, it is crucial to understand innovative approaches to maintaining the effectiveness of these interventions. Therefore, we conducted a systematic review of technology-based self-management interventions for women with breast cancer in six countries. We analyzed the characteristics of these interventions and examined their diverse health outcomes.

METHODS

Six databases were systematically searched to extract research articles using the keywords "breast cancer," "technology," and "self-management." The search was carried out up until June 12, 2023. From the 1,288 studies retrieved from the database search, 10 eligible papers were identified based on inclusion/exclusion criteria. Two authors independently extracted and compared the data from these articles, resolving any discrepancies through discussion.

RESULTS

Most of the 10 studies utilized web- or mobile-based technology, and one used artificial intelligence-based technology. Among the 12 health-related outcome variables, quality of life and symptom distress were the most frequently mentioned, appearing in six articles. Furthermore, an analysis of the intervention programs revealed a variety of common constructs and the involvement of managers in the self-management intervention.

CONCLUSION

Incorporating key components such as self-management planning, diary keeping, and communication support in technology-based interventions could significantly improve the self-management process for breast cancer survivors. The practical application of technology has the potential to empower women diagnosed with breast cancer and improve their overall quality of life, by providing timely and sustainable interventions, and by leveraging available resources and tools.

Physical function, nutritional status, and quality of life before and after chemotherapy in patients with malignant lymphoma

This study investigates the efficacy of and gender differences in exercise therapy in patients with malignant lymphoma undergoing chemotherapy. Twenty-six patients (13 men, 13 women) received physical therapy (based on the Borg Scale 13) during hospitalization. Physical function was measured using grip and knee extension strength, 6-minute walking distance, and body composition; nutritional status assessed via Mini Nutritional Assessment (MNA®); and serum albumin levels analyzed. Fatigue was evaluated using the Brief Fatigue Inventory, and health-related quality of life was assessed with the Medical Outcome Study 36-Item Short-Form Health Survey (SF-36v2). The analysis of all patients indicated that the right grip strength, skeletal muscle mass, skeletal muscle index, and leg muscle mass significantly decreased, whereas the serum albumin level, MNA® score, and scores of many items of the SF-36v2 significantly increased after chemotherapy. In a gender-specific analysis, only men showed significant declines in the skeletal muscle mass and skeletal muscle index, and improvement in the MNA® score after chemotherapy. In the SF-36v2, there were significant improvements in general health and physical component summary scores among men, and general health and mental component summary scores among women. Exercise therapy at a Borg Scale intensity of 13 may not prevent muscle mass decline in patients with malignant lymphoma, especially male patients. In addition, this study revealed that there is a gender difference in the effect of exercise therapy on quality of life. Thus, gender should be considered in exercise therapy for patients with malignant lymphoma.

Effectiveness of a behavioral lifestyle intervention on weight management and mobility improvement in older informal caregivers: a secondary data analysis

Background

Older informal caregivers are prone to sedentary behavior and obesity. With great caregiving burdens and frequent physical and mental distress, older informal caregivers may have low adherence and poor results in behavioral intervention for weight management. This study examined whether overweight or obese older informal caregivers could benefit from a behavioral weight management program as much as non-caregivers.

Methods

The Mobility and Vitality Lifestyle Program (MOVE UP) was a pre-post, community-based, 13-month lifestyle intervention study to help older adults improve physical function performance and lose weight. We identified a subset of informal caregivers (n = 29) and non-caregivers (n = 65) from the MOVE UP participants retrospectively. Changes in lower extremity function, weight, depressive symptoms, and self-efficacy from baseline were compared between caregivers and non-caregivers using paired t-tests and ANCOVA.

Results

Older informal caregivers had significantly lower session attendance rates than non-caregivers (67.7% vs 76.8%, P < 0.05), however, both informal caregivers and non-caregivers improved significantly in lower extremity function, weight loss, and self-efficacy in diet (Ps < 0.05). For each outcome, changes from baseline to the 13-month endpoint were the same among informal caregivers and non-caregivers.

Conclusion

This study provides evidence that older informal caregivers can benefit from behavioral weight management interventions despite the challenge caregiving poses for effective self-care. Future behavioral intervention studies for older informal caregivers should adopt self-monitoring tools and extend the on-site delivery to home-based settings for higher adherence and greater flexibility.

Trial registration

Registered at clinicaltrials.gov (NCT02657239).

Bridging the gap between attitudes and action: A qualitative exploration of clinician and exercise professional's perceptions to increase opportunities for exercise counselling and referral in cancer care

OBJECTIVE

This study aimed to 1) understand factors impacting the implementation of exercise communication and referral, and 2) explore integrated clinical approaches to exercise communication and referral in cancer care.

METHODS

Seven focus groups (N = 53) were conducted with clinicians and exercise professionals throughout Sydney, Australia. A sub-sample of participants (n = 9) attended a half-day workshop to identifying best practice approaches for moving forward. Data were analysed using thematic content analysis.

RESULTS

Two themes emerged: 1) Factors impacting the knowledge-to-action gap, inclusive of limited exercise specific knowledge and training opportunities, funding structure, and current referral process, and 2) Recommendations for a consistent and efficient way forward, detailing the need for oncologist-initiated communication, distribution of cancer-exercise resources, and access to exercise professionals with cancer expertise.

CONCLUSIONS

This study identified factors (e.g., cancer-exercise specific training, integration of exercise physiologists) influencing exercise counselling and referral. A potential implementation-referral approach accounting for these factors and how to incorporate exercise into a standard model of cancer care, is described. Future testing is required to determine feasibility and practicality of these approaches.

PRACTICAL IMPLICATIONS

A pragmatic model is provided to guide implementation-referral, inclusive of oncologist-initiated communication exchange, relevant resources, and access to exercise professionals with cancer expertise.

A systematic scoping review of post-treatment lifestyle interventions for adult cancer survivors and family members

PURPOSE

Supporting the health of cancer survivors and their families from diagnosis through survivorship is a recognized priority. However, the extent to which health promotion efforts after the completion of acute treatment attend to the needs of adult survivors and families is unclear. This systematic scoping review summarizes the key characteristics of post-treatment lifestyle interventions aiming to improve diet, physical activity, and/or weight-related outcomes for adult cancer survivors and family members.

METHODS

We retrieved relevant studies from six databases using keywords. Studies were appraised for quality and limited to English-language, peer-reviewed journal articles published in or after 2005.

RESULTS

A total of 2,376 articles were obtained from the databases; 14 main articles (and 2 supplemental articles) representing 14 unique interventions were retained for our analysis. Most interventions were designed to modify aspects of participant diet and physical activity (in combination) or physical activity alone; cited social cognitive theory as a guiding or interpretative framework; included survivors of multiple cancer types; and were limited to one type of familial relationship (e.g., spouse/partner, sister). Where reported, intervention samples were predominantly White.

CONCLUSIONS

Few post-treatment interventions concurrently target cancer survivor and family members' positive lifestyle behaviors. Positive findings highlight the potential for expanding this area of intervention research and increasing understanding of individual and familial factors that contribute to successful post-treatment family interventions.

IMPLICATIONS FOR CANCER SURVIVORS

Promoting cancer survivors' healthy behaviors within the family context could capitalize on existing support networks and improve the health of family members in supportive roles.

Identifying effective interventions to promote consumption of protein-rich foods from lower ecological footprint sources: A systematic literature review

Addressing overconsumption of protein-rich foods from high ecological footprint sources can have positive impacts on health such as reduction of non-communicable disease risk and protecting the natural environment. With the increased attention towards development of ecologically sustainable diets, this systematic review aimed to critically review literature on effectiveness of those interventions aiming to promote protein-rich foods from lower ecological footprint sources. Five electronic databases (Medline, Web of Science, Scopus, Embase and Global Health) were searched for articles published up to January 2021. Quantitative studies were eligible for inclusion if they reported on actual or intended consumption of protein-rich animal-derived and/or plant-based foods; purchase, or selection of meat/plant-based diet in real or virtual environments. We assessed 140 full-text articles for eligibility of which 51 were included in this review. The results were narratively synthesised. Included studies were categorised into individual level behaviour change interventions (n = 33) which included education, counselling and self-monitoring, and micro-environmental/structural behaviour change interventions (n = 18) which included menu manipulation, choice architecture and multicomponent approaches. Half of individual level interventions (52%) aimed to reduce red/processed meat intake among people with current/past chronic conditions which reduced meat intake in the short term. The majority of micro-environmental studies focused on increasing plant-based diet in dining facilities, leading to positive dietary changes. These findings point to a clear gap in the current evidence base for interventions that promote plant-based diet in the general population.

Long-term Effectiveness of mHealth Physical Activity Interventions: Systematic Review and Meta-analysis of Randomized Controlled Trials

BACKGROUND

Mobile health (mHealth) interventions can increase physical activity (PA); however, their long-term impact is not well understood.

OBJECTIVE

The primary aim of this study is to understand the immediate and long-term effects of mHealth interventions on PA. The secondary aim is to explore potential effect moderators.

METHODS

We performed this study according to the Cochrane and PRISMA (Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta-Analyses) guidelines. We searched PubMed, the Cochrane Library, SCOPUS, and PsycINFO in July 2020. Eligible studies included randomized controlled trials of mHealth interventions targeting PA as a primary outcome in adults. Eligible outcome measures were walking, moderate-to-vigorous physical activity (MVPA), total physical activity (TPA), and energy expenditure. Where reported, we extracted data for 3 time points (ie, end of intervention, follow-up ≤6 months, and follow-up >6 months). To explore effect moderators, we performed subgroup analyses by population, intervention design, and control group type. Results were summarized using random effects meta-analysis. Risk of bias was assessed using the Cochrane Collaboration tool.

RESULTS

Of the 2828 identified studies, 117 were included. These studies reported on 21,118 participants with a mean age of 52.03 (SD 14.14) years, of whom 58.99% (n=12,459) were female. mHealth interventions significantly increased PA across all the 4 outcome measures at the end of intervention (walking standardized mean difference [SMD] 0.46, 95% CI 0.36-0.55; P<.001; MVPA SMD 0.28, 95% CI 0.21-0.35; P<.001; TPA SMD 0.34, 95% CI 0.20-0.47; P<.001; energy expenditure SMD 0.44, 95% CI 0.13-0.75; P=.01). Only 33 studies reported short-term follow-up measurements, and 8 studies reported long-term follow-up measurements in addition to end-of-intervention results. In the short term, effects were sustained for walking (SMD 0.26, 95% CI 0.09-0.42; P=.002), MVPA (SMD 0.20, 95% CI 0.05-0.35; P=.008), and TPA (SMD 0.53, 95% CI 0.13-0.93; P=.009). In the long term, effects were also sustained for walking (SMD 0.25, 95% CI 0.10-0.39; P=.001) and MVPA (SMD 0.19, 95% CI 0.11-0.27; P<.001). We found the study population to be an effect moderator, with higher effect scores in sick and at-risk populations. PA was increased both in scalable and nonscalable mHealth intervention designs and regardless of the control group type. The risk of bias was rated high in 80.3% (94/117) of the studies. Heterogeneity was significant, resulting in low to very low quality of evidence.

CONCLUSIONS

mHealth interventions can foster small to moderate increases in PA. The effects are maintained long term; however, the effect size decreases over time. The results encourage using mHealth interventions in at-risk and sick populations and support the use of scalable mHealth intervention designs to affordably reach large populations. However, given the low evidence quality, further methodologically rigorous studies are warranted to evaluate the long-term effects.

What do cancer survivors and their health care providers want from a healthy living program? Results from the first round of a co-design project

PURPOSE

Healthy lifestyles are an important part of cancer survivorship, though survivors often do not adhere to recommended guidelines. As part of the co-design of a new online healthy living intervention, this study aimed to understand cancer survivors', oncology healthcare professionals' (HCP) and cancer non-government organisation (NGO) representatives' preferences regarding intervention content and format.

METHODS

Survivors, HCP and NGO representatives participated in focus groups and interviews exploring what healthy living means to survivors, their experience with past healthy living programs and their recommendations for future program content and delivery. Sessions were audio recorded, transcribed verbatim and analysed thematically.

RESULTS

Six focus groups and eight interviews were conducted including a total of 38 participants (21 survivors, 12 HCP, 5 NGO representatives). Two overarching messages emerged: (1) healthy living goes beyond physical health to include mental health and adjustment to a new normal and (2) healthy living programs should incorporate mental health strategies and peer support and offer direction in a flexible format with long-term accessibility. There was a high degree of consensus between participant groups across themes.

CONCLUSIONS

These findings highlight the need for integration of physical and mental health interventions with flexibility in delivery. Future healthy living programs should investigate the potential for increased program adherence if mental health interventions and a hybrid of delivery options were included.

Coping self-efficacy influences health information avoidance

Avoiding information about one's health can have long-term implications for health and well-being. Two studies examined the relationship between health information avoidance and coping self-efficacy, or a sense that one can effectively cope. In Study 1, coping self-efficacy, but not general self-efficacy, was associated with information avoidance. In Study 2, participants who reflected on their positive coping strategies were less likely to avoid learning their risk for disease as compared to those who did not reflect on their coping strategies. These findings suggest that coping self-efficacy is a good target for future interventions aimed at reducing health information avoidance.

Systematic Review of Randomized Controlled Trials of Exercise Interventions Using Digital Activity Trackers in Patients With Cancer

Background: Exercise can ameliorate cancer- and treatment-related toxicities, but poor adherence to exercise regimens is a barrier. Exercise interventions using digital activity trackers (E-DATs) may improve exercise adherence, but data are limited for patients with cancer. We conducted a systematic review examining the feasibility of E-DATs in cancer survivors and effects on activity level, body composition, objective fitness outcomes, health-related quality of life (HRQoL), self-reported symptoms, and biomarkers. Methods: We identified randomized controlled trials (RCTs) of E-DATs in adult cancer survivors published in English between January 1, 2008, and July 27, 2017. Two authors independently reviewed article titles (n=160), removed duplicates (n=50), and reviewed the remaining 110 articles for eligibility. Results: A total of 12 RCTs met eligibility criteria, including 1,450 patients (mean age, 50-70 years) with the following cancers: breast (n=5), colon or breast (n=2), prostate (n=1), acute leukemia (n=1), or others (n=3). Duration of E-DATs ranged from 4 to 24 weeks, and the follow-up period ranged from 4 to 52 weeks, with retention rates of 54% to 95%. The technology component of E-DATs included pedometers (n=8); pedometers with smartphone application (n=1), Wii Fit (n=1), heart rate monitor (n=1); and a wireless sensor with accelerometer, gyroscope, and magnetometer (n=1). Adherence by at least one measure to E-DATs was >70% in 8 of 8 RCTs. Compared with controls, E-DATs significantly improved patients' step count in 3 of 5 RCTs, activity level in 6 of 9 RCTs, and HRQoL in 7 of 9 RCTs (all P≤05), with no significant changes in biomarkers (eg, interleukin 6, tumor necrosis factor α, C-reactive protein, c-peptide, lipid panel) in 3 RCTs. Duration of E-DAT was not significantly correlated with adherence or study retention. Conclusions: This systematic review shows that E-DATs are feasible to implement in cancer survivors. Future research should examine the optimal type, dose, and schedule of E-DATs for cancer survivors.

The Use of Behavior Change Theories in Dietetics Practice in Primary Health Care: A Systematic Review of Randomized Controlled Trials

BACKGROUND

Behavior change theories frameworks provide the theoretical underpinning for effective health care. The extent to which they are applied in contemporary dietetics interventions has not been explored.

OBJECTIVE

To systematically review the evidence of behavior change theory-based interventions delivered by credentialed nutrition and dietetics practitioners in primary health care settings.

METHODS

Medline, the Cumulative Index to Nursing and Allied Health Literature, PsycINFO, Embase, and Cochrane databases were searched for English language, randomized controlled trials before August 2019. Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta-Analysis guidelines were followed. Eligible interventions included adults (aged ≥18 years) receiving face-to-face dietetics care underpinned by behavior change theories in primary health care settings with outcome measures targeting changes in health behaviors or health outcomes. Screening was conducted independently in duplicate and data were extracted using predefined categories. The quality of each study was assessed using the Cochrane Risk of Bias tool. The body of evidence was assessed using the Academy of Nutrition and Dietetics Evidence Analysis Manual Conclusion Grading Table.

RESULTS

Thirty articles reporting on 19 randomized controlled trials met the eligibility criteria, representing 5,172 adults. Thirteen studies (68%) showed significant improvements for the primary outcome measured. Social cognitive theory was the behavior change theory most commonly applied in interventions (n=15) with 11 finding significant intervention effects. Goal setting, problem solving, social support, and self-monitoring were the most commonly reported techniques (n=15, n=14, n=11, and n=11, respectively). Most studies had a high (n=11) or unclear (n=8) risk of bias. There was fair evidence (Grade II) supporting the use of behavior change theories to inform development of dietetics interventions.

CONCLUSIONS

Interventions delivered by credentialed nutrition and dietetics practitioners that were underpinned by behavior change theories and utilizing various behavior change techniques were found to have potential to be more effective at improving patient health outcomes than dietary interventions without theoretical underpinnings. Findings from this review should inform future primary health care research in the area of dietary behavior change. In addition, findings from this review highlight the need for stronger documentation of use of behavior change theory and techniques that map on to the theory within dietetics practice.

Dietary interventions for adult cancer survivors

BACKGROUND

International dietary recommendations include guidance on healthy eating and weight management for people who have survived cancer; however dietary interventions are not provided routinely for people living beyond cancer.

OBJECTIVES

To assess the effects of dietary interventions for adult cancer survivors on morbidity and mortality, changes in dietary behaviour, body composition, health-related quality of life, and clinical measurements.

SEARCH METHODS

We ran searches on 18 September 2019 and searched the Cochrane Central Register of Controlled trials (CENTRAL), in the Cochrane Library; MEDLINE via Ovid; Embase via Ovid; the Allied and Complementary Medicine Database (AMED); the Cumulative Index to Nursing and Allied Health Literature (CINAHL); and the Database of Abstracts of Reviews of Effects (DARE). We searched other resources including reference lists of retrieved articles, other reviews on the topic, the International Trials Registry for ongoing trials, metaRegister, Physicians Data Query, and appropriate websites for ongoing trials. We searched conference abstracts and WorldCat for dissertations.

SELECTION CRITERIA

We included randomised controlled trials (RCTs) that recruited people following a cancer diagnosis. The intervention was any dietary advice provided by any method including group sessions, telephone instruction, written materials, or a web-based approach. We included comparisons that could be usual care or written information, and outcomes measured included overall survival, morbidities, secondary malignancies, dietary changes, anthropometry, quality of life (QoL), and biochemistry.

DATA COLLECTION AND ANALYSIS

We used standard Cochrane methodological procedures. Two people independently assessed titles and full-text articles, extracted data, and assessed risk of bias. For analysis, we used a random-effects statistical model for all meta-analyses, and the GRADE approach to rate the certainty of evidence, considering limitations, indirectness, inconsistencies, imprecision, and bias.

MAIN RESULTS

We included 25 RCTs involving 7259 participants including 977 (13.5%) men and 6282 (86.5%) women. Mean age reported ranged from 52.6 to 71 years, and range of age of included participants was 23 to 85 years. The trials reported 27 comparisons and included participants who had survived breast cancer (17 trials), colorectal cancer (2 trials), gynaecological cancer (1 trial), and cancer at mixed sites (5 trials). For overall survival, dietary intervention and control groups showed little or no difference in risk of mortality (hazard ratio (HR) 0.98, 95% confidence interval (CI) 0.77 to 1.23; 1 study; 3107 participants; low-certainty evidence). For secondary malignancies, dietary interventions versus control trials reported little or no difference (risk ratio (RR) 0.99, 95% CI 0.84 to 1.15; 1 study; 3107 participants; low-certainty evidence). Co-morbidities were not measured in any included trials. Subsequent outcomes reported after 12 months found that dietary interventions versus control probably make little or no difference in energy intake at 12 months (mean difference (MD) -59.13 kcal, 95% CI -159.05 to 37.79; 5 studies; 3283 participants; moderate-certainty evidence). Dietary interventions versus control probably led to slight increases in fruit and vegetable servings (MD 0.41 servings, 95% CI 0.10 to 0.71; 5 studies; 834 participants; moderate-certainty evidence); mixed results for fibre intake overall (MD 5.12 g, 95% CI 0.66 to 10.9; 2 studies; 3127 participants; very low-certainty evidence); and likely improvement in Diet Quality Index (MD 3.46, 95% CI 1.54 to 5.38; 747 participants; moderate-certainty evidence). For anthropometry, dietary intervention versus control probably led to a slightly decreased body mass index (BMI) (MD -0.79 kg/m², 95% CI -1.50 to -0.07; 4 studies; 777 participants; moderate-certainty evidence). Dietary interventions versus control probably had little or no effect on waist-to-hip ratio (MD -0.01, 95% CI -0.04 to 0.02; 2 studies; 106 participants; low-certainty evidence). For QoL, there were mixed results; several different quality assessment tools were used and evidence was of low to very low-certainty. No adverse events were reported in any of the included studies.

AUTHORS' CONCLUSIONS

Evidence demonstrated little effects of dietary interventions on overall mortality and secondary cancers. For comorbidities, no evidence was identified. For nutritional outcomes, there was probably little or no effect on energy intake, although probably a slight increase in fruit and vegetable intake and Diet Quality Index. Results were mixed for fibre. For anthropometry, there was probably a slight decrease in body mass index (BMI) but probably little or no effect on waist-to-hip ratio. For QoL, results were highly varied. Additional high-quality research is needed to examine the effects of dietary interventions for different cancer sites, and to evaluate important outcomes including comorbidities and body composition. Evidence on new technologies used to deliver dietary interventions was limited.

Impact of a Tailored Nutrition and Lifestyle Intervention for Overweight Cancer Survivors on Dietary Patterns, Physical Activity, Quality of Life, and Cardiometabolic Profiles

Survivors of cancer often experience treatment-related toxicity in addition to being at risk of cancer recurrence, second primary cancers, and greater all-cause mortality. The objective of this study was to test the safety and efficacy of an intensive evidence-based garden intervention to improve outcomes for cancer survivors after curative therapy. To do so, a clinical trial of adult overweight and obese cancer survivors within 2 years of completing curative therapy was completed. The 6-month intervention, delivered within the context of harvesting at an urban garden, combined group education with cooking demonstrations, remote motivational interviewing, and online digital resources. Data on dietary patterns, program satisfaction, and quality of life were collected via questionnaires; anthropometrics, physical activity, and clinical biomarkers were measured objectively. Of the 29 participants, 86% were white, 83% were female, and the mean age was 58 years. Compared to baseline, participants had significant improvements in Healthy Eating Index (HEI) scores (+5.2 points, p = 0.006), physical activity (+1,208 steps, p = 0.033), and quality of life (+16.07 points, p = 0.004). Significant improvements were also documented in weight (−3.9 kg), waist circumference (−5.5 cm), BMI (−1.5 kg/m²), systolic BP (−9.5 mmHg), plasma carotenoids (+35%), total cholesterol (−6%), triglycerides (−14%), hs-CRP (−28%), and IGFBP-3 (−5%) (all p < 0.010). These findings demonstrate a tailored multifaceted garden-based biobehavioral intervention for overweight and obese cancer survivors after curative therapy is safe and highly effective, warranting larger randomized controlled trials to identify program benefits, optimal maintenance strategies, program value relative to cost, and approaches for integration into a survivor's oncology management program. This trial is registered on ClinicalTrials.gov NCT02268188.

Phase II randomised control feasibility trial of a nutrition and physical activity intervention after radical prostatectomy for prostate cancer

OBJECTIVE

Dietary factors and physical activity may alter prostate cancer progression. We explored the feasibility of lifestyle interventions following radical prostatectomy for localised prostate cancer.

DESIGN

Patients were recruited into a presurgical observational cohort; following radical prostatectomy, they were offered randomisation into a 2×3 factorial randomised controlled trial (RCT).

SETTING

A single National Health Service trust in the South West of England, UK.

PARTICIPANTS

Those with localised prostate cancer and listed for radical prostatectomy were invited to participate.

RANDOMISATION

Random allocation was performed by the Bristol Randomised Trial Collaboration via an online system.

INTERVENTIONS

Men were randomised into both a modified nutrition group (either increased vegetable and fruit, and reduced dairy milk; or lycopene supplementation; or control) and a physical activity group (brisk walking or control) for 6 months.

BLINDING

Only the trial statistician was blind to allocations.

PRIMARY OUTCOME MEASURES

Primary outcomes were measures of feasibility: randomisation rates and intervention adherence at 6 months. Collected at trial baseline, three and six months, with daily adherence reported throughout. Our intended adherence rate was 75% or above, the threshold for acceptable adherence was 90%.

RESULTS

108 men entered the presurgical cohort, and 81 were randomised into the postsurgical RCT (randomisation rate: 93.1%) and 75 completed the trial. Of 25 men in the nutrition intervention, 10 (40.0%; 95% CI 23.4% to 59.3%) adhered to the fruit and vegetable recommendations and 18 (72.0%; 95% CI 52.4% to 85.7%) to reduced dairy intake. Adherence to lycopene (n=28), was 78.6% (95% CI 60.5% to 89.8%), while 21/39 adhered to the walking intervention (53.8%; 95% CI 38.6% to 68.4%). Most men were followed up at 6 months (75/81; 92.6%). Three 'possibly related' adverse events were indigestion, abdominal bloating and knee pain.

CONCLUSIONS

Interventions were deemed feasible, with high randomisation rates and generally good adherence. A definitive RCT is proposed.

TRIAL REGISTRATION NUMBER

ISRCTN 99048944.

Helping Patients Eat Better During and Beyond Cancer Treatment: Continued Nutrition Management Throughout Care to Address Diet, Malnutrition, and Obesity in Cancer

Cancer patients and survivors are at risk of poor clinical outcomes due to poor nutritional intake following cancer diagnosis. During cancer treatment, treatment toxicities can affect eating patterns and can lead to malnutrition resulting in loss of lean body mass and excessive weight loss. Following treatment and throughout survivorship, patients are at risk of not meeting national nutrition guidelines for cancer survivors, which can affect recurrence and survival. Obesity, which is highly prevalent in cancer patients and survivors, can affect clinical outcomes during treatment by masking malnutrition and is also a risk factor for cancer recurrence and poorer survival in some cancers. Appropriate and effective nutritional education and guidance by trained clinicians are needed throughout the cancer continuum. This article presents an overview of recommendations and guidelines for nutrition and weight management and provides recent examples of behavioral theory-based targeted lifestyle interventions designed to increase adherence to recommendation by cancer patients and survivors.

A randomized controlled trial of WATAAP to promote physical activity in colorectal and endometrial cancer survivors

OBJECTIVE

The objective of this study was to ascertain whether wearable technology coupled with action planning was effective in increasing physical activity (PA) in colorectal and endometrial cancer survivors at cardiovascular risk.

METHODS

Sixty-eight survivors who had cardiovascular risk factors and were insufficiently active were randomized to intervention and control arms. Intervention participants were given a wearable tracker for 12 weeks, two group sessions, and a support phone call. Participants in the control arm received print materials describing PA guidelines. Assessments at baseline and 12 weeks measured triaxial and uniaxial estimates of moderate-vigorous physical activity (MVPA), sedentary behaviour, blood pressure, and body mass index (BMI).

RESULTS

The intervention group significantly increased MVPA by 45 min/wk compared with a reduction of 21 min/wk in the control group. Group by time interactions were significant for minutes of MVPA (F1,126  = 5.14, P = 0.025). For those with diastolic hypertension, there was a significant group by time interaction (F1,66  = 4.89, P = 0.031) with a net reduction of 9.89 mm Hg in the intervention group.

CONCLUSIONS

Significant improvements in MVPA were observed following the intervention. The results display promise for the use of pragmatic, low-intensity interventions using wearable technology.

Pituitary disease in pediatric brain tumor survivors

INTRODUCTION

Treatment of childhood brain tumors, including surgical resection and especially external beam radiation, often results in endocrine complications manifested by hypopituitarism, which can involve growth hormone deficiency, hypothyroidism, adrenal insufficiency, disorders of puberty, diabetes insipidus, and hypothalamic obesity.

AREAS COVERED

A comprehensive literature search was conducted on Medline (publications from the 1990s to 01/2019) including systematic reviews, meta-analyses, longitudinal controlled studies, retrospective cohort studies, and case reports. Herein, we present an up-to-date review of the current literature regarding endocrine sequellae of childhood brain tumor survivors.

EXPERT OPINION

Late endocrine sequellae can arise many years after the initial treatment of tumor, so at least annual surveillance of growth, puberty, weight, development, and endocrine status is recommended for at least 10 years after tumor therapy. This follow up should encompass childhood and adulthood among survivors. If found early, outcomes of endocrinopathies are favorable when treated appropriately. Newer tumor therapy modalities, such as proton beam radiation, offer the potential for fewer endocrine complications, but such benefit has yet to be demonstrated, and more research into short- and long-term outcomes is needed.

Promoting physical activity in regional and remote cancer survivors (PPARCS) using wearables and health coaching: randomised controlled trial protocol

INTRODUCTION

Physically active cancer survivors have substantially less cancer recurrence and improved survival compared with those who are inactive. However, the majority of survivors (70%-90%) are not meeting the physical activity (PA) guidelines. There are also significant geographic inequalities in cancer survival with poorer survival rates for the third of Australians who live in non-metropolitan areas compared with those living in major cities. The primary objective of the trial is to increase moderate-to-vigorous PA (MVPA) among cancer survivors living in regional and remote Western Australia. Secondary objectives are to reduce sedentary behaviour and in conjunction with increased PA, improve quality of life (QoL) in non-metropolitan survivors. Tertiary objectives are to assess the effectiveness of the health action process approach (HAPA) model variables, on which the intervention is based, to predict change in MVPA.

METHODS AND ANALYSIS

Eighty-six cancer survivors will be randomised into either the intervention or control group. Intervention group participants will receive a Fitbit and up to six telephone health-coaching sessions. MVPA (using Actigraph), QoL and psychological variables (based on the HAPA model via questionnaire) will be assessed at baseline, 12 weeks (end of intervention) and 24 weeks (end of follow-up). A general linear mixed model will be used to assess the effectiveness of the intervention.

ETHICS AND DISSEMINATION

Ethics approval has been obtained from St John of God Hospital Subiaco (HREC/#1201). We plan to submit a manuscript of the results to a peer-reviewed journal. Results will be presented at conferences, community and consumer forums and hospital research conferences.

TRIAL REGISTRATION NUMBER

ACTRN12618001743257; pre-results, U1111-1222-5698.

Do people improve health behavior after their partner is diagnosed with cancer? A prospective study in the Danish diet, Cancer and Health Cohort

Background: The cancer diagnosis is regarded as a stressful life event that is thought to trigger a teachable moment to induce health behavior changes among cancer patients. However, this may also hold true for their partners. We assessed if partners of cancer patients make more health behavior changes compared to persons whose partner remained cancer-free. Methods: Lifestyles was assessed in the prospective Danish Diet, Cancer and Health study. Logistic regression analyses were used to assess health behavior change among partners of cancer patients (n = 672) compared to partners of persons who remained cancer-free (n = 5534). Additionally, associations in two subgroups were assessed: bereaved partners and partners of patients who remained alive after cancer. Results: Partners of cancer patients were more likely to decrease their alcohol intake compared to partners of persons who remained cancer free. This finding could mainly be attributed to bereaved partners. Moreover, bereaved partners were also more likely to decrease their BMI. In contrast to our hypothesis, bereaved partners were more likely to decrease fruit intake and increase sugared beverages compared to partners of persons who remained cancer free. In general, men tended to improve their physical activity, while women tended to worsen their physical activity following the cancer diagnosis of their partner. Conclusions: A cancer diagnosis in the partner does seem to improve health behavior change only for alcohol intake. Bereaved partners tend to worsen dietary behaviors after the patient's death.

Use of a comprehensive frailty assessment to predict morbidity in patients with multiple myeloma undergoing transplant

Multiple myeloma (MM) is a disease of aging adults and autologous stem cell transplant (ASCT) is considered the standard of care. As the population ages a growing number of older adults will undergo ASCT and an objective approach to estimate physiologic reserve and transplant morbidity risk is warranted. Here, we evaluate assess p16INK4a (p16), a molecular aging biomarker, along with geriatric metrics to determine risk of transplant toxicity.

METHODS

We prospectively evaluated 100 MM patients for frailty before and after ASCT using a Geriatric Assessment (GA) and collected T-cells for analysis of p16 using a custom nanostring codeset.

RESULTS

Pre-transplant physical function was predicative of hospital length of stay (LOS). Each one-unit increase in physical function score, the average LOS decreased by 0.52 days (95% CI, -1.03-0.02); p = .04). Similarly, higher self-report of ADL/IADL (Human Activity Profile was associated with shorter LOS (0.65 less days (95% CI -1.15 to -0.15), p = .01). Patients with anxiety/depression (OR = 1.10 (95% CI 1.00-1.22), p = .056), lower handgrip strength (OR = 0.90 (95% CI 0.82-0.98), p = .02), falls (OR = 1.60 (95% CI 1.07-2.38), p = .02), or weight loss (OR = 5.65 (95% CI 1.17-25.24), p = .03) were more likely to be re-admitted. The estimated EFS at 1-year was 85% (95% CI, 75-91) with median follow-up of 15.7 months. Weight loss was a significant predictor of EFS (HR = 3.13 (95% CI 1.15-8.50), p = .03). Frailty assessment by self-reported fatigue minimally correlated with T-cell p16 expression (r = 0.28; p = .02). Age, Karnofsky Performance Status (KPS), or Hematopoietic cell transplantation-specific Co-Morbidity Index (HCT-CI) did not predict hospital LOS or readmissions.

CONCLUSIONS

Our data illustrate that a GA can identify individuals with MM who are at greater risk for morbidity following ASCT.

Systematic review and meta-analysis of maintenance of physical activity behaviour change in cancer survivors

Background

Physical activity can improve health and wellbeing after cancer and may reduce cancer recurrence and mortality. To achieve such long-term benefits cancer survivors must be habitually active. This review evaluates the effectiveness of interventions in supporting maintenance of physical activity behaviour change among adults diagnosed with cancer and explores which intervention components and contextual features are associated with effectiveness.

Methods

Relevant randomised controlled trials (RCTs) were identified by a search of Ovid Medline, Ovid Embase and PsychINFO. Trials including adults diagnosed with cancer, assessed an intervention targeting physical activity and reported physical activity behaviour at baseline and ≥ 3 months post-intervention were included. The behaviour change technique (BCT) taxonomy was used to identify intervention components and the Template for Intervention Description and Replication to capture contextual features. Random effect meta-analysis explored between and within group differences in physical activity behaviour. Standardised mean differences (SMD) describe effect size.

Results

Twenty seven RCTs were included, 19 were pooled in meta-analyses. Interventions were effective at changing long-term behaviour; SMD in moderate to vigorous physical activity (MVPA) between groups 0.25; 95% CI = 0.16–0.35. Within-group pre-post intervention analysis yielded a mean increase of 27.48 (95% CI = 11.48-43.49) mins/wk. of MVPA in control groups and 65.30 (95% CI = 45.59–85.01) mins/wk. of MVPA in intervention groups. Ineffective interventions tended to include older populations with existing physical limitations, had fewer contacts with participants, were less likely to include a supervised element or the BCTs of ‘action planning’, ‘graded tasks’ and ‘social support (unspecified)’. Included studies were biased towards inclusion of younger, female, well-educated and white populations who were already engaging in some physical activity.

Conclusions

Existing interventions are effective in achieving modest increases in physical activity at least 3 months post-intervention completion. Small improvements were also evident in control groups suggesting low-intensity interventions may be sufficient in promoting small changes in behaviour that last beyond intervention completion. However, study samples are not representative of typical cancer populations. Interventions should consider a stepped-care approach, providing more intensive support for older people with physical limitations and others less likely to engage in these interventions.

Electronic supplementary material

The online version of this article (10.1186/s12966-019-0787-4) contains supplementary material, which is available to authorized users.

Behavior change techniques for increasing physical activity in cancer survivors: a systematic review and meta-analysis of randomized controlled trials

Purpose

The purpose of this systematic review and meta-analysis is to investigate how physical activity (PA) can be effectively promoted in cancer survivors. The effect of PA-promoting interventions in general, behavior change techniques (BCTs), and further variables as moderators in particular are evaluated.

Methods

This study included randomized controlled trials of lifestyle interventions aiming at an increase in PA that can be carried out independently at home, published by December 2016, for adults diagnosed with cancer after completion of the main treatment. Primary outcomes were subjective and objective measures of PA prior to and immediately after the intervention. Meta-analysis and meta-regression were used to estimate effect sizes (ES) in terms of standardized mean differences, variation between ES in terms of heterogeneity indices (I²), and moderator effects in terms of regression coefficients.

Results

This study included 30 studies containing 45 ES with an overall significant small positive effect size of 0.28 (95% confidence interval=0.18–0.37) on PA, and I²=54.29%. The BCTs Prompts, Reduce prompts, Graded tasks, Non-specific reward, and Social reward were significantly related to larger effects, while Information about health consequences and Information about emotional consequences, as well as Social comparison were related to smaller ES. The number of BCTs per intervention did not predict PA effects. Interventions based on the Theory of Planned Behavior were associated with smaller ES, and interventions with a home-based setting component were associated with larger ES. Neither the duration of the intervention nor the methodological quality explained differences in ES.

Conclusion

Certain BCTs were associated with an increase of PA in cancer survivors. Interventions relying on BCTs congruent with (social) learning theory such as using prompts and rewards could be especially successful in this target group. However, large parts of between-study heterogeneity in ES remained unexplained. Further primary studies should directly compare specific BCTs and their combinations.

Tracking steps in oncology: the time is now

Purpose

Accurate evaluation of patients’ health status is a key component of the workup, treatment, and follow-up of cancer patients. Assessments by clinicians (eg, performance status, toxicity grade) and patients (eg, quality of life) play a critical role in current practice but have significant limitations. Technological advances now provide an opportunity to track a new class of objective measures of patient activity, such as daily step counts. Here, we describe recent efforts to incorporate this technology into the field of oncology.

Design

We conducted a structured literature search using MEDLINE electronic database to identify published observational studies of tracking steps in cancer patients and trials of exercise programs for cancer survivors incorporating pedometers until February 2016.

Results

Data indicate that physical activity information may supplant existing scales for the assessment of cancer patients’ functional capacity.

Conclusion

Objective activity monitoring is poised to revolutionize the way health care providers assess cancer patients at the time of diagnosis, during treatment, and in the survivorship setting.

A systematic review of physical activity-based behaviour change interventions reaching men with prostate cancer

PURPOSE

Men who are survivors of prostate cancer report a variety of psychological and physical factors contributing to a lower quality of life, and physical activity can assist to mitigate these issues. This review aims to provide a summary of physical activity behaviour change trials targeting prostate cancer survivors, assess the feasibility of these interventions and, if possible, identify intervention and study characteristics associated with significant intervention effects.

METHOD

Four databases (PubMed, CINAHL, PsycINFO and EMBASE) were systematically searched for randomised controlled trials containing at least one behavioural outcome relating to physical activity published up until July 2016. Forward and backwards, hand, key author citation searching and known research were also considered.

RESULTS

From a total of 13, 828 titles, the search resulted in 12 studies (6 prostate cancer only and 6 mixed cancer interventions), eight of which found positive results most often related immediately to post-intervention aerobic activity. Factors relating to efficacy were not conclusive due to the heterogeneity of studies and lack of cancer-specific data in mixed cancer trials. Future research focusing on intervention reach, maintenance of intervention effects and resistance training outcomes is needed.

CONCLUSION

There is preliminary evidence to suggest that a variety of physical activity behaviour change interventions targeting men with a history of prostate cancer can be efficacious, at least in the short term. Experimental studies are required to identify key intervention features.

IMPLICATIONS FOR CANCER SURVIVORS

Physical activity interventions can assist prostate cancer survivors in relation to short-term lifestyle change, though more evidence is required to improve the clarity of factors related to efficacy.

Promoting Healthy Eating and Physical Activity Behaviors: A Systematic Review of Multiple Health Behavior Change Interventions Among Cancer Survivors

Multiple health behavior change (MHBC) interventions have great potential for enhancing health and well-being following cancer diagnosis and treatment. However, the characteristics and effects of MHBC interventions remain elusive for cancer survivors. The main purpose of this study was to evaluate the effectiveness of MHBC interventions on healthy eating and physical activity behaviors among cancer survivors. A secondary aim was to examine the effect of using a simultaneous and sequential design approach to MHBC (ie, changing both behaviors at the same time or one after the other). Randomized controlled trials reporting the impact of a MHBC intervention on both healthy eating and physical activity behaviors among cancer survivors were retrieved from MEDLINE, Cochrane Library, and PsycINFO. A total of 27 MHBC interventions were identified; most (92.6%) were designed to promote simultaneous change in both behaviors and assessed end-of-treatment effect among breast cancer survivors. MHBC interventions led by nurses or multidisciplinary teams showed the most compelling evidence for small to moderate improvement in both behaviors, with interventions that lasted ≥17 weeks more likely to improve both behaviors. This study identifies research priorities and provides preliminary evidence for clinical decision making and advancements in MHBC intervention design and delivery for clinical oncology.

Wearable activity monitors in oncology trials: Current use of an emerging technology

BACKGROUND

Physical activity is an important outcome in oncology trials. Physical activity is commonly assessed using self-reported questionnaires, which are limited by recall and response biases. Recent advancements in wearable technology have provided oncologists with new opportunities to obtain real-time, objective physical activity data. The purpose of this review was to describe current uses of wearable activity monitors in oncology trials.

METHODS

We searched Pubmed, Embase, and the Cochrane Central Register of Controlled Trials for oncology trials involving wearable activity monitors published between 2005 and 2016. We extracted details on study design, types of activity monitors used, and purpose for their use. We summarized activity monitor metrics including step counts, sleep and sedentary time, and time spent in moderate-to-vigorous activity.

RESULTS

We identified 41 trials of which 26 (63%) involved cancer survivors (post-treatment) and 15 trials (37%) involved patients with active cancer. Most trials (65%) involved breast cancer patients. Wearable activity monitors were commonly used in exercise (54%) or behavioral (29%) trials. Cancer survivors take between 4660 and 11,000 steps/day and those undergoing treatment take 2885 to 8300steps/day.

CONCLUSION

Wearable activity monitors are increasingly being used to obtain objective measures of physical activity in oncology trials. There is potential for their use to expand to evaluate and predict clinical outcomes such as survival, quality of life, and treatment tolerance in future studies. Currently, there remains a lack of standardization in the types of monitors being used and how their data are being collected, analyzed, and interpreted.

PRECIS

Recent advancements in wearable activity monitor technology have provided oncologists with new opportunities to monitor their patients' daily activity in real-world settings. The integration of wearable activity monitors into cancer care will help increase our understanding of the associations between physical activity and the prevention and management of the disease, in addition to other important cancer outcomes.

eHealth System for Collecting and Utilizing Patient Reported Outcome Measures for Personalized Treatment and Care (PROMPT-Care) Among Cancer Patients: Mixed Methods Approach to Evaluate Feasibility and Acceptability

Background

Despite accumulating evidence indicating that collecting patient-reported outcomes (PROs) and transferring results to the treating health professional in real time has the potential to improve patient well-being and cancer outcomes, this practice is not widespread.

Objective

The aim of this study was to test the feasibility and acceptability of PROMPT-Care (Patient Reported Outcome Measures for Personalized Treatment and Care), a newly developed electronic health (eHealth) system that facilitates PRO data capture from cancer patients, data linkage and retrieval to support clinical decisions and patient self-management, and data retrieval to support ongoing evaluation and innovative research.

Methods

We developed an eHealth system in consultation with content-specific expert advisory groups and tested it with patients receiving treatment or follow-up care in two hospitals in New South Wales, Australia, over a 3-month period. Participants were recruited in clinic and completed self-report Web-based assessments either just before their upcoming clinical consultation or every 4 weeks if in follow-up care. A mixed methods approach was used to evaluate feasibility and acceptability of PROMPT-Care; data collected throughout the study informed the accuracy and completeness of data transfer procedures, and extent of missing data was determined from participants’ assessments. Patients participated in cognitive interviews while completing their first assessment and completed evaluation surveys and interviews at study-end to assess system acceptability and usefulness of patient self-management resources, and oncology staff were interviewed at study-end to determine the acceptability and perceived usefulness of real-time PRO reporting.

Results

A total of 42 patients consented to the study; 7 patients were withdrawn before starting the intervention primarily because of changes in eligibility. Overall, 35 patients (13 on treatment and 22 in follow-up) completed 67 assessments during the study period. Mean completeness of patient-reported data was 93%, with 100% accuracy of data transfer. Ten patients completed cognitive interviews, 28 completed evaluation surveys, and 14 completed evaluation interviews at study-end. PROMPT-Care patient acceptability was high—100% (28/28) reported the time to complete the Web-based assessments (average 15 min) as about right, most willing to answer more questions (79%, 22/28 yes), 96% (27/28) found the Web-based assessment easier or same as completing a paper copy, and they valued the self-management resources . Oncology staff (n=5) also reported high acceptability and potential feasibility of the system.

Conclusions

Patients and oncology staff found the PROMPT-Care system to be highly acceptable, and the results suggest that it would be feasible to implement it into an oncology setting. Suggested modifications to the patient assessment survey, clinician access to the reports, and system requirements will be made as part of the next stage of large-scale testing and future implementation of the system as part of routine care.

Trial registration

Australian New Zealand Clinical Trials Registry ACTRN1261500135294; https://www.anzctr.org.au/Trial/Registration/TrialReview.aspx?id=369299&isReview=true (Archived by WebCite at http://www.webcitation.org/6lzylG5A0).

Health status and needs of cancer survivors attending the Sydney Survivorship Centre clinics and programmes: a protocol for longitudinal evaluation of the centre's services

INTRODUCTION

The care of cancer survivors after primary adjuvant treatment is recognised as a distinct phase of the cancer journey. Recent research highlights the importance of lifestyle factors in treating symptoms, potentially decreasing risk of a cancer recurrence and modifying the risk of developing other chronic illnesses that are increased in the cancer population. Survivorship services aim to deliver care that addresses these issues. The overall aims are to determine the health status of cancer survivors and to evaluate the services offered by the Sydney Survivorship Centre (SSC).

METHODS AND ANALYSIS

This is an observational single-centre study evaluating the longitudinal physical and psychological health, symptoms, quality of life and lifestyle (physical activity and nutrition) of early stage cancer survivors attending the multidisciplinary Sydney Survivorship Clinic and survivors (at any stage of the cancer journey) and caregivers participating in SSC courses. Evaluation of patient satisfaction is included. Patient-reported outcomes and patient characteristics will be summarised using descriptive statistics with Spearman rank sum correlation coefficients to determine associations between patient-reported outcomes. Regression modelling may be used to further evaluate associations and to investigate risk factors and predictors of health outcomes. Qualitative data will be analysed using thematic analysis to identify themes. Sample size will be determined by attendance of consenting patients at clinics and courses.

ETHICS AND DISSEMINATION

The study has received ethics approval from the Concord Repatriation General Hospital Human Research Ethics Committee (HREC/14/CRGH/23). The results will be published and presented at appropriate conferences.This study will provide important information regarding the health status and needs of Australian cancer survivors and the ability of the survivorship centre to address these needs. These data will shape the future direction of survivorship care in Australia and facilitate the design of interventions or measures to provide better quality of care to this patient population.

Lifestyle behavior interventions delivered using technology in childhood, adolescent, and young adult cancer survivors: A systematic review

Childhood, adolescent, and young adult cancer survivors demonstrate increased cardio-metabolic risk factors, which are amenable to lifestyle changes. The use of technology to impact lifestyle change expands previously limited intervention access, yet little is known about its use. We summarized lifestyle interventions for survivors delivered using technology, finding six studies, primarily targeting physical activity. Study samples were small and durations ranged from 5 to 16 weeks and outcomes modest. Participants were older, white, survivors of leukemia or brain tumors, and the majority received Web-based interventions. Study quality was moderate. Few technology-based interventions have been developed, suggesting an area of opportunity for survivors.

Development of Metabolic Syndrome Associated to Cancer Therapy: Review

Long-term childhood cancer survivors are at great risk of developing late adverse effects after treatment, such as, reduced growth, obesity, decreased fertility, high blood pressure, cardiovascular diseases, impaired glucose, another form of cancer, among others organ dysfunctions, some of them are part of the metabolic syndrome. Metabolic syndrome and cancer connection is still not entirely understood, but there are some notions about it. Metabolic alterations produced during childhood cancer are more likely determined by treatments like radiotherapy, chemotherapy, glucocorticoids therapy, and surgery. Cancer treatment is associated to vascular alterations, hormone deficiencies, changes in insulin sensitivity, lipid metabolism, and inflammatory mediators. Obesity has been considered a crucial component in metabolic syndrome; obesity risk factors during childhood cancer include cranial radiation, female gender, and exposure to glucocorticoids such as dexamethasone. In addition, local radiotherapy or surgery may cause endocrine deficiencies, depends on the directly damage of endocrine organs. Patients who received some types of cancer treatment should be evaluated periodically to early diagnostic metabolic disorders associated to antineoplastic therapy.

Social cognitive theory mediators of physical activity in a lifestyle program for cancer survivors and carers: findings from the ENRICH randomized controlled trial

BACKGROUND

Despite increasing numbers of cancer survivors and evidence that diet and physical activity improves the health of cancer survivors, most do not meet guidelines. Some social cognitive theory (SCT)-based interventions have increased physical activity behavior, however few have used objective physical activity measures. The Exercise and Nutrition Routine Improving Cancer Health (ENRICH) randomized controlled trial reported a significant intervention effect for the primary outcome of pedometer-assessed step counts at post-test (8-weeks) and follow-up (20-weeks). The aim of this study was to test whether the SCT constructs operationalized in the ENRICH intervention were mediators of physical activity behavior change.

METHODS

Randomized controlled trial with 174 cancer survivors and carers assessed at baseline, post-test (8-weeks), and follow-up (20-weeks). Participants were randomized to the ENRICH six session face-to-face healthy lifestyle program, or to a wait-list control. Hypothesized SCT mediators of physical activity behavior change (self-efficacy, behavioral goal, outcome expectations, impediments, and social expectations) were assessed using valid and reliable scales. Mediation was assessed using the Preacher and Hayes SPSS INDIRECT macro.

RESULTS

At eight weeks, there was a significant intervention effect on behavioral goal (A = 9.12, p = 0.031) and outcome expectations (A = 0.25, p = 0.042). At 20 weeks, the intervention had a significant effect on self-efficacy (A = 0.31, p = 0.049) and behavioral goal (A = 13.15, p = 0.011). Only changes in social support were significantly associated with changes in step counts at eight weeks (B = 633.81, p = 0.023). Behavioral goal was the only SCT construct that had a significant mediating effect on step counts, and explained 22 % of the intervention effect at 20 weeks (AB = 397.9, 95 % CI 81.5-1025.5).

CONCLUSIONS

SCT constructs had limited impact on objectively-assessed step counts in a multiple health behavior change intervention for cancer survivors and their carers. Behavioral goal measured post-intervention was a significant mediator of pedometer-assessed step counts at 3-months after intervention completion, and explained 22 % of the intervention effect. Future research should examine the separate impact of goals and planning, as well as examining mediators of behavior maintenance in physical activity interventions targeting cancer survivors.

TRIAL REGISTRATION

Australian and New Zealand Clinical Trials registry ANZCTRN1260901086257 .

Demographic, clinical, psychosocial, and environmental correlates of objectively assessed physical activity among breast cancer survivors

Purpose

The aim of this study was to identify demographic, clinical, psychosocial, and environmental correlates of objectively assessed physical activity among breast cancer survivors.

Methods

Baseline data were utilized from 574 female breast cancer survivors who participated in three different intervention studies: Resistance and Endurance exercise After ChemoTherapy (REACT), Exercise and Nutrition Routine Improving Cancer Health (ENRICH), and Move More for Life (MM4L). Participants were eligible if they were aged ≥18 years and had completed primary cancer treatment. Physical activity was objectively assessed by accelerometers or pedometers. Participants completed self-reported questionnaires on demographic, psychosocial, and environmental factors. Information regarding clinical factors was obtained from medical records or patient self-report. Multivariable linear regression analyses were applied on the pooled dataset to identify factors that were significantly correlated with physical activity. In addition, the explained variance of the model was calculated.

Results

The multivariable regression model revealed that older age, (β = −0.01, 95 %CI = −0.02; −0.003), higher body mass index (β = −0.05, 95 %CI = −0.06; −0.03), lower self-efficacy (β = 0.2, 95 %CI = 0.08; 0.2), and less social support (β = 0.1, 95 %CI = 0.05; 0.2) were significantly correlated with lower physical activity. This model explained 15 % of the variance in physical activity.

Conclusion

Age, body mass index, self-efficacy, and social support were significantly correlated with objectively assessed physical activity in breast cancer survivors. It may therefore be recommended that physical activity intervention studies in these women target those who are older, and have a higher body mass index, and should operationalize behavior change strategies designed to enhance self-efficacy and social support.

Trial registration

The REACT study is registered at the Netherlands Trial Register [NTR2153]. The ENRICH study is registered at Australian New Zealand Clinical Trials Register [ANZCTRN12609001086257]. And the MM4L study is registered at Australian New Zealand Clinical Trials Register [ACTRN12611001061921]

Development and Applicability of an Internet-Based Diet and Lifestyle Questionnaire for College Students in China: A Cross-Sectional Study

Diet contributes to the increasing incidence of chronic diseases. Thus, fast, accurate, and convenient dietary assessment tools are in demand. We designed an internet-based diet and lifestyle questionnaire for Chinese (IDQC). The objective of this study was to validate its applicability and assess the dietary habits of Chinese college students.Six hundred forty-four college students from northern China were recruited and asked to complete the IDQC for the last 4 months (135 food items) and 3-day diet records (3DDRs). Food and nutrient intakes recorded in the IDQC were validated against those in the 3DDRs using the Wilcoxon matched-pairs t test, correlation analysis, and cross-classification. The Student t and χ tests were used in the dietary assessment.There were significantly positive correlations in the dietary intakes of 9 food groups and 23 nutrients between the IDQC and 3DDRs. All participants consumed low levels of fruits, vegetables, legumes, dairy, and certain micronutrients (ie, vitamin A, vitamin B1, vitamin B2, folic acid, vitamin C, calcium, selenium, and iodine), and high levels of iron and manganese. Male students consumed higher intakes of the food groups and nutrients than female students.The IDQC represents an accurate and convenient dietary assessment tool that can be used in large populations. Inadequate and excessive nutrition co-existed in college students, and more fruits, vegetables, legumes, dairy, and various vitamins and minerals were needed in this population's daily diet. The IDQC is free of access at www.yyjy365.org/diet.

El consumo de alcohol en los supervivientes al cáncer: estado de la cuestión y propuestas para el desarrollo de intervenciones psicológicas

Objetivo: El consumo de alcohol se ha establecido como un factor de riesgo para el desarrollo del cáncer de forma consistente a lo largo de los años. En los supervivientes al cáncer el consumo de alcohol después del tratamiento alcanza valores significativos y además el alcohol se ha asociado con aspectos relevantes de la supervivencia, como una mayor depresión y una peor calidad de vida. Sin embargo, no hay una gran variedad de intervenciones cuyo objetivo sea reducir el consumo de alcohol en este grupo de pacientes. Método: Se llevó a cabo una revisión sobre el consumo de alcohol en los pacientes y supervivientes al cáncer y las intervenciones psicológicas disponibles para reducir el consumo, en los últimos 10 años, del año 2007 al 2017. Las bases de datos consultadas fueron PubMed, Web of Science (WOS) y PsycInfo. Se utilizaron los siguientes descriptores: alcohol, cancer patients, survivors, psychological treatment. Resultados: no se observan intervenciones psicológicas diseñadas específicamente para reducir el consumo de alcohol en los supervivientes al cáncer en la literatura previa. La mayoría tienen como objetivo el aumento de las conductas de salud utilizando intervenciones de tipo psicosocial o proporcionando información sobre el alcohol. Solamente una intervención mostró resultados significativos para reducir el consumo de alcohol, en una intervención diseñada para reducir el peso en supervivientes al cáncer de mama. Conclusiones: la relevancia del consumo de alcohol en este grupo de pacientes sugiere la necesidad de que se desarrollen una mayor variedad de intervenciones psicológicas que tengan como objetivo específico la reducción del consumo de alcohol en los pacientes que han superado la enfermedad.