Breast Cancer and Obesity: a Qualitative Analysis of a Diverse Population of Breast Cancer Patients’ Perspectives on Weight Management

Abstract

Obesity and weight gain in breast cancer survivors leads to a greater risk of recurrence and a decreased chance of survival. A paucity of data exists regarding strengths, weaknesses, and barriers for implementing culturally sensitive, patient-centered interventions for weight management among minority communities. The objective of this study was to evaluate breast cancer patients' experience and perspectives regarding weight management in a racially diverse population. MethodsSemi-structured qualitative interviews were conducted with breast cancer patients with a body mass index ≥ 25 kg/m 2 regarding their experience with weight management. Interviews were transcribed verbatim, and a thematic analysis was conducted. ResultsParticipants (n = 17) mostly identi ed as non-Hispanic Black (70.6%). Nearly all participants felt comfortable being approached about weight management, yet less than half (41.2%) reported that they knew about the link between breast cancer and body weight prior to the interview. Four themes emerged:(1) lack of knowledge regarding the link between body weight and breast cancer risk, (2) barriers to weight management including family stressors, high cost, mental health issues, and chronic medical conditions, (3) previous attempts at weight loss including bariatric surgery, and (4) best practices for approaching weight management including discussion of weight management prior to survivorship. ConclusionThere is a need for a multidisciplinary, patient-centered weight management program for minority breast cancer patients that improves awareness of the link between weight and breast cancer risk. Weight management should be introduced early on as an element of the treatment plan for breast cancer.

Online Home-Based Physical Activity Counteracts Changes of Redox-Status Biomarkers and Fitness Profiles during Treatment Programs in Postsurgery Female Breast Cancer Patients

“…A multitude of studies have demonstrated that women who are overweight/obese at the time of BC diagnosis are at an increased risk of cancer recurrence and death when compared with leaner women. Furthermore, some evidence suggests that women who gain weight after BC diagnosis may also be at an increased risk of poorer clinical outcomes [93]. Exercise also improved the functional capacities of patients enrolled in our study, which is in agreement with Galiano-Catillo and colleagues [21].…”