Guidelines on Lifestyle Changes and Breast Cancer-where are we up to and how does this Apply to Black Women with Breast Cancer.

Abstract

Purpose of review: Breast cancer remains a significant health concern globally, with lifestyle factors playing a crucial role in its prevention and management. This paper aims to summarize the current lifestyle guidelines for breast cancer for consistency and consensus of best practice and to explore their specific implications for Black women with breast cancer.

Recent findings: There has been a growing body of data from both observational studies and some randomised controlled trials showing the relationship between diet, physical activity, body weight and cancer risk and outcomes. These has led to established national and international guidelines emphasizing the importance of lifestyle advice for survivors in reducing breast cancer risk and a drive for healthcare professionals to guide practice. However, the application and impact of these guidelines can vary across different populations, including Black women, who face unique challenges and disparities in breast cancer outcomes. Breast cancer survivors can benefit from counselling about lifestyle changes across the continuum from diagnosis, treatment through to survivorship. Guidelines recommending these changes for breast cancer survivors have been developed to guide healthcare professionals for consistency and best practice. Culturally sensitive approaches and targeted strategies are crucial to effectively reduce breast cancer disparities and improve survival rates in this population.