Cancer survivors often face unique challenges in maintaining a healthy lifestyle post-treatment, especially when grappling with overweight or obesity. Recognizing this need, researchers from the CU Anschutz Health and Wellness Center (AHWC) are launching a new research study called BfedBwell, which is supported by the University of Colorado Cancer Center. Emily Hill, PhD, RDN, who is Principal Investigator for the study states, “The study aims to work collaboratively with a co-design team comprised of program delivery staff, cancer experts, and people who have had cancer to develop and test a survivorship nutrition program.”
The intervention focuses on increasing adherence to cancer survivorship guidelines, improving body composition, and positively influencing cardiometabolic indicators of health among individuals who have recently completed active cancer treatment. Hill states, “The program is designed to complement and enhance the existing BfitBwell program, which is a fitness program designed for people living with and beyond cancer that has been offered at the AHWC for several years. BfitBwell has demonstrated success in helping people to improve their physical function and quality of life, but lack of consistent change in dietary patterns and body weight after participation suggests additional support for nutrition is needed.”
Study Design
This single-arm study will recruit cancer survivors with overweight/obesity to participate in the 12-week BfedBwell nutrition program alongside the BfitBwell exercise program. The BfedBwell program addresses Social Cognitive Theory (SCT) constructs to help individuals improve dietary patterns by focusing on self-efficacy, self-monitoring, outcome expectations, and social support. The program addresses the holistic well-being of participants by providing education and support related to not only nutrition but also mental, social, and emotional health.
Components of the study include:
Group-Based Education and Discussion:
Participants will engage in weekly 60-minute virtual sessions led by a Registered Dietitian (RD). These sessions are designed to provide education and foster discussion based on cancer survivorship guidelines for lifestyle behaviors. Emphasis for nutrition education will be placed on following a primarily plant-based dietary pattern, limiting intake of alcohol and processed meats, reducing consumption of ultra-processed foods, and achieving a weekly calorie deficit for weight loss. Other topics will include behavioral strategies such as budgeting and meal planning as well as discussions around goals and social support to help individuals navigate the transition to healthy survivorship.
Individual Counseling Sessions:
Monthly 30-minute virtual one-on-one counseling sessions with an RD will be provided to review progress and address individual barriers. This personalized approach ensures participants receive tailored guidance and support.
Behavioral Skills Development and Cooking Demonstrations:
In-person sessions lasting 60-90 minutes each month and provided by the Community Nutrition RD team at the AHWC will focus on behavioral skills development and nutrition education. These sessions will include cooking demonstrations aimed at reinforcing behavior change techniques (e.g., planning) and enhancing nutrition skills (e.g., recipe development, label reading).
Evaluation Criteria
The study will evaluate the proof of concept by examining the intervention's impact on adherence to guidelines for diet, physical activity, and body weight, as well as changes in body composition and cardiometabolic indicators of health. These assessments, coupled with weekly satisfaction surveys and qualitative interviews at the end of the study, will provide valuable insights into the program's feasibility, acceptability, and potential for implementation and will lay the groundwork for future refinement and testing.
The intervention components were chosen based on a solid foundation of theoretical knowledge and evidence supporting their utility. By addressing not only dietary patterns but also incorporating behavioral and social support elements, the program aims to empower cancer survivors to take charge of their health and well-being beyond the completion of active treatment. By evaluating potential for clinical implementation at both the participant and organizational level, the team hopes to create a program that will continue to grow to better serve the local cancer community and beyond.
For more information about this study or to see if you qualify visit our website.
