Quality-of-Life and Weight Loss Outcomes Following an Individualized Nutrition and Physical Activity Counseling Program in Breast Cancer Survivors: A Prospective Single-Arm Pilot Study.

PURPOSE: Assess the feasibility of a 6-month individualized nutrition counseling and exercise program targeting a 10% body weight loss in breast cancer (BC) survivors, with secondary endpoints assessing metabolic parameters, cardiovascular function, and quality of life.

METHODS

This single-arm pilot study enrolled BC survivors with body mass index (BMI) ≥ 25 kg/m2 in a counseling program with a registered dietitian, consisting of in-person and telephone visits over six months. Outcomes measured included weight, body composition, blood markers, cardiovascular function, and quality of life at 3 and 6 months.

RESULTS

A total of 78 breast cancer survivors were enrolled; 59 remained in the study at Month 3, and 54 completed the 6-month follow-up. The median age of participants was 58.5 years, and the cohort was predominantly White (72.4%). Among the 54 participants who completed 6-month follow-up, 11.1% achieved >10% weight loss and 29.6% achieved >5% weight loss. At 3 months, significant reductions were observed in BMI, body fat composition, and hemoglobin A1c (HbA1c), along with improvements in quality of life, depression, and anxiety. At 6 months, significant reductions were observed in weight, BMI, and body fat composition, with improvements in quality of life and depressive symptoms.

CONCLUSIONS

This hybrid nutrition and exercise program was associated with observed improvements in weight loss and improved quality of life among BC survivors.

IMPLICATIONS FOR CANCER SURVIVORS: A low-burden, hybrid nutrition and exercise program integrated into routine oncology follow-up may help breast cancer survivors achieve weight loss while improving their quality of life.