Poster Presentation COSA-IPOS Joint Scientific Meeting 2012

The feasibility of an innovative combined nutrition and physical activity intervention for cancer survivors – preliminary results. (#878)

Stephanie Zrim 1 , Stephanie Leggett 2 , Michelle Miller 2 , James Dollman 3 , Lynette Jones 4 , Sharon Lawn 5 , Richard Woodman 6 , Chris Karapetis 7 , Ganessan Kichenadasse 7 , Shawgi Sukumaran 7 , Sue Booth 2 , Bogda Koczwara 1 7
  1. Medical Oncology, Flinders University, Adelaide, SA, Australia
  2. Department of Nutrition and Dietetics, Flinders University, Adelaide, SA, Australia
  3. School of Health Sciences, University of South Australia, Adelaide, SA, Australia
  4. School of Physical Education, University of Otago, Dunedin, New Zealand
  5. Department of Psychiatry, Flinders University, Adelaide, SA, Australia
  6. Flinders Centre for Epidemiology and Biostatistics, Flinders University, Adelaide, SA
  7. Medical Oncology, Flinders Medical Centre, Adelaide, SA, Australia

Background: Weight gain and inactivity amongst cancer survivors have been associated with poorer cancer outcomes, functional impairment and cardiovascular morbidity. The optimal model for improving nutrition and activity levels in cancer survivors has not been established. Research indicates superior outcomes when incorporating self-management models into health care delivery.

Aim: To evaluate the feasibility of a combined nutrition and physical activity intervention in cancer survivors within a self-management framework.

Methodology: A single centre prospective study of participants with solid tumours aged ≥ 18 years, treated with curative intent within one of 2 cohorts: 1) those currently receiving chemotherapy, and 2) within 8 weeks of completion of active treatment. The intervention includes the Flinders Living Well Self-Management Program where participants develop nutrition and physical activity SMART goals (specific, measureable, achievable, realistic and timely) followed by the development of a tailored 12 week nutrition and physical activity intervention in consultation with the health care professional. Feasibility outcomes include recruitment rate, completion rate, progress towards nutrition and physical activity goals, and acceptability.

Results: Preliminary results indicate a high level of interest in the study with 7 of 9 patients (78%) approached consenting to participate. Of these 3 were in cohort 1 and 4 in cohort 2. Most research participants already actively attempt to eat a healthy diet and exercise and are highly motivated, especially those at completion of treatment. Participants undergoing chemotherapy face additional challenges requiring further support outside the intervention including psychosocial support. Updated feasibility and compliance data will be provided at time of presentation.

Discussion: A combined nutrition and physical activity intervention within a self-management framework is of great interest to cancer survivors. Those undergoing chemotherapy face additional challenges requiring further support.