Abstract
METHODS
Patients treated for breast cancer at the Netherlands Cancer Institute were invited to participate in one of two online focus groups; HCPs were recruited via LinkedIn and participated in a single online focus group. All three 90-minute focus groups were moderated using a semi-structured interview guide. Recordings were transcribed and coded using thematic content analysis.
CONCLUSION
Multimodal lifestyle interventions designed to prevent and reduce weight gain in breast cancer patients are needed. Awareness should be raised for HCPs and patients.
RESULTS
Nine patients and seven HCPs participated. Themes applicable for patients were: 1) Absence of information; 2) Combining weight management with daily activities and responsibilities; 3) Physical and psychological side-effects; 4): Integrating weight management in treatment continuum. For HCPs, themes were: 1) Health education; 2) Integrating weight management in treatment continuum; 3) Role of healthcare insurance companies.
OBJECTIVES
While weight gain after cancer diagnosis is associated with higher tumor recurrence rates, morbidity, and poorer overall survival, appropriate weight management programs are insufficiently available. This study aimed to identify the key features for a multimodal weight management intervention from patients' and healthcare professionals' (HCP) perspectives.
PRACTICE IMPLICATIONS
For equal accessibility, cost-effective lifestyle interventions are ideally covered by healthcare insurance companies.