Riding the Crest of the Teachable Moment: Promoting Long-Term Health After the Diagnosis of Cancer
Publication: Journal of Clinical Oncology
Abstract
Purpose
Cancer survivors are at increased risk for several comorbid conditions, and many seek lifestyle change to reduce dysfunction and improve long-term health. To better understand the impact of cancer on adult survivors' health and health behaviors, a review was conducted to determine (1) prevalent physical health conditions, (2) persistent lifestyle changes, and (3) outcomes of previous lifestyle interventions aimed at improving health within this population.
Methods
Relevant studies from 1966 and beyond were identified through MEDLINE and PubMed searches.
Results
Cancer survivors are at increased risk for progressive disease but also for second primaries, osteoporosis, obesity, cardiovascular disease, diabetes, and functional decline. To improve overall health, survivors frequently initiate diet, exercise, and other lifestyle changes after diagnosis. However, those who are male, older, and less educated are less likely to adopt these changes. There also is selective uptake of messages, as evidenced by findings that only 25% to 42% of survivors consume adequate amounts of fruits and vegetables, and approximately 70% of breast and prostate cancer survivors are overweight or obese. Several behavioral interventions show promise for improving survivors' health-related outcomes. Oncologists can play a pivotal role in health promotion, yet only 20% provide such guidance.
Conclusion
With 64% of cancer patients surviving > 5 years beyond diagnosis, oncologists are challenged to expand their focus from acute care to managing the long-term health consequences of cancer. Although more research is needed, opportunities exist for oncologists to promote lifestyle changes that may improve the length and quality of life of their patients.
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Copyright
© 2005 by American Society of Clinical Oncology.
History
Published in print: August 20, 2005
Published online: September 21, 2016
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Article Citation
Riding the Crest of the Teachable Moment: Promoting Long-Term Health After the Diagnosis of Cancer. JCO 23, 5814-5830(2005).
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Journal of Clinical Oncology 2005 23:24, 5814-5830
Journal of Clinical Oncology 2005 23:24, 5814-5830
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