The importance of dietary change for men diagnosed with and at risk of prostate cancer: a multi-centre interview study with men, their partners and health professionals

Abstract

BackgroundThe diagnosis of prostate cancer (PC) can provide a trigger for dietary change, and there is evidence that healthier diets may improve quality of life and clinical outcomes. However, men’s views about dietary change in PC survivorship are largely unknown. This multi-centre qualitative interview study explored men’s views about dietary change in PC survivorship, to better understand motivations for, and barriers to, achieving desired changes. The role of radical and active surveillance treatments on dietary change and the influence of men’s partners were examined. Focus groups also evaluated stakeholder opinion, including healthcare professionals, about the provision of dietary advice to PC patients.MethodsA multi-centre interview study explored views about diet and motivations for, and barriers to, dietary change in men at elevated risk or diagnosed with PC following prostate specific antigen (PSA) testing. 58 men and 11 partners were interviewed. Interviews and focus groups were undertaken with 11 healthcare professionals, 5 patients and 4 partners to evaluate stakeholders’ opinions about the feasibility and acceptability of providing dietary advice to PC patients. Data were analysed using methods of constant comparison and thematic analysis.ResultsOver half of diagnosed men reported making dietary changes, primarily to promote general or prostate health or facilitate coping, despite their uncertainty about diet-PC links. Interest in dietary advice was high. Information needs varied depending on treatment received, with men on active surveillance more frequently modifying their diet and regarding this as an adjunct therapy. Men considered their partners integral to implementing changes. Provision of dietary advice to men diagnosed with PC was considered by healthcare professionals and men to be feasible and appropriate in the context of a holistic ‘care package’.ConclusionsMany men make positive dietary changes after PC diagnosis, which are perceived by men and their partners to bring psychological and general health benefits and could help future dietary intervention trials. Men and their partners desire more and better dietary information that may support PC survivorship, particularly among those embarking on active surveillance/monitoring programmes. There are opportunities for healthcare professionals to support PC patients both clinically and psychologically by the routine integration of healthy eating advice into survivorship care plans.

Attitudes, challenges and needs about diet and physical activity in endometrial cancer survivors: a qualitative study

“…As with other cancer survivor groups (Anderson et al, 2013, Avery et al, 2014, participants valued healthy eating and physical activity for their overall health and well-being.…”

“…Survivors of other cancer sites have reported a desire for support and evidencebased advice regarding lifestyle changes after cancer treatment such as dietary advice for symptom management, and reduction of fear for food choices after treatment (Anderson et al, 2013, Williams et al, 2013a, Avery et al, 2014. Whether the lifestyle information needs are similar between survivors of endometrial cancer and other cancers may depend on their specific factors influencing diet and physical activity, given the different treatments and Page 3 of 33 treatment effects across cancer sites.…”

Gender relations and couple negotiations of British men's food practice changes after prostate cancer

“…Although some research suggests that UK men are interested in diet improvements as part of prostate cancer supportive care, (Avery et al, 2014) there is currently little research or services available to address this need for nutrition education and interventions. Consequently, little is known about what features of diet interventions would best contribute to changing men's diets favourably after a prostate cancer diagnosis (Demark--Wahnefried, 2009;Avery 2013;Carmody 2012).…”

AGE Metabolites: A Biomarker Linked to Cancer Disparity?

“…Poor diet and a lack of physical activity are potential risk factors for prostate cancer. Men who eat higher quantities of red meat and dairy products rather than fresh fruits and vegetables may have a higher chance of developing prostate cancer (5, 6). A healthy diet may also associate with improved clinical outcome and increased quality of life (6).…”

“…Men who eat higher quantities of red meat and dairy products rather than fresh fruits and vegetables may have a higher chance of developing prostate cancer (5, 6). A healthy diet may also associate with improved clinical outcome and increased quality of life (6). While no association between physical activity and prostate cancer risk has yet been identified, research suggests that it may be associated with reduced risk of aggressive disease (7).…”