Background 

Androgen deprivation therapy (ADT) for prostate cancer is associated with cardiovascular comorbidities and numerous adverse effects decreasing health-related quality of life. Both exercise and dietary interventions have shown promise in reducing ADT-related negative sequelae. However, feasibility for personalized combined exercise/nutrition/education interventions is not well established.

Objective 

The purpose of this randomized, controlled, mixed-methods pilot study was to evaluate the feasibility of a nurse-led, telephone-delivered education, exercise, and nutrition intervention, Staying Strong & Healthy, to minimize ADT-related cardiovascular/metabolic risks and symptoms.

Methods 

Staying Strong & Healthy involves individually tailored education, exercise (aerobic and resistance), and nutrition intervention delivered over 6 months and was compared with attention control. The primary quantitative outcome measure was change from baseline in low-density lipoprotein. Secondary outcomes included change in lipid levels (total cholesterol, high-density lipoprotein, low-density lipoprotein, and triglycerides), fasting blood glucose, hemoglobin A_1c, health-related quality of life, and diet quality. Assessments were performed at baseline, 6 months, and 12 months.

Results 

Feasibility was demonstrated by low attrition rates and high participant satisfaction. No between-group differences were demonstrated in the cardiovascular/metabolic outcomes. Significant within-group improvements were noted for high-density lipoprotein and hemoglobin A_1c in the intervention group.

Conclusion 

The study results indicate that participation in a personalized, nurse-delivered exercise, nutrition, and educational intervention is feasible and acceptable to men with prostate cancer receiving ADT.

Implications for Practice 

Future randomized controlled research powered to detect significant differences is needed to confirm the impact of the Staying Strong & Healthy intervention on reduction of the cardiovascular/metabolic impact of ADT for men with prostate cancer.