Key components for a weight management intervention for breast cancer patients – Results from a focus group study

Abstract

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.

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.

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.

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.

Practice implications

For equal accessibility, cost-effective lifestyle interventions are ideally covered by healthcare insurance companies.