Strategies to Individualize Nutritional Care of Breast Cancer Survivors

Abstract

Introduction

Breast cancer survivorship is a complex, chronic condition requiring personalized interventions. While nutrition is widely recognized as a key component of Survivorship Care Plans (SCPs), there is limited implementation of nutritional interventions in routine survivorship care. This discussion paper explores strategies to individualize nutritional care for breast cancer survivors (BCSs), identifies barriers to implementation, and proposes actionable solutions to improve adherence.

Methods

A comparative and analytical approach, drawing on peer-reviewed articles in key databases, policy reports, case studies, and international guidelines, was used to examine nutritional care and barriers to implementing SCPs for BCSs.

Results

Barriers to nutritional care stem from healthcare systems, including provider knowledge gaps, time constraints, and financial limitations. Patient-related factors include lack of awareness, fatigue, psychological barriers, perceived time barriers, and inconsistent family support.

Discussion

Recommendations for overcoming these challenges include enhanced healthcare provider training, integration of registered dietitians into care teams, and promoting remote nutritional interventions to improve accessibility. Additionally, involving family members in dietary interventions may improve long-term adherence.

Conclusion

By addressing these barriers through a coordinated multidisciplinary approach, nutritional interventions can improve the quality of life and long-term outcomes for BCSs, reducing the risk of recurrence, comorbidities, and improving their quality of life.

Implications for nursing

Nurses, as central figures in survivorship care, are ideally positioned to lead the development and implementation of SCPs, including nutritional counseling, but require formal training in evidence-based nutrition and communication strategies.