scholarly journals The Effects of Individual Diet Therapy on Food Intake, Quality of Life, and Related Serum Proteins in Patients with Breast Cancer: A Randomized Clinical Trial

Author(s):  
Azadeh Fallah ◽  
Kiana Parnian ◽  
Hamid Abdolazimi ◽  
Sajjad Tezerji ◽  
Zohreh Mazloom

Background: In cancer patients, weight loss due to malnutrition has a significant impact on the patients’ treatment and quality of life. This study aimed to determine the appropriate therapeutic strategy to control the side effects of chemotherapy in patients with breast cancer to improve their health, quality of life, and nutritional status. Methods: In our prospective study, we examined gastric cancer patients who were Seventy patients undergoing chemotherapy were included and randomly divided into intervention (n=35) and control groups (n=35). The intervention group received an individualized diet according to their nutritional needs for eight weeks, and the control group received dietary advice on the side effects of chemotherapy. Malnutrition, nutritional barriers, and patients’ quality of life were evaluated by PG-SGA, nutritional barriers, and QLQ-C30 questionnaires. Serum proteins were also assessed at the beginning and the end of the study. Results: The patients’ mean age was 50.91±1.72 years in the intervention group and 51±1.35 in the control group. According to the PG-SGA questionnaire classification, 68.5% of patients had malnutrition at baseline. In the intervention group, the mean score of PG-SGA decreased, which indicated an improvement in patients’ nutritional status. Increased scores in the functional section of QLQC30 and a decrease in the symptom section of this questionnaire indicated the improved quality of life in patients undergoing treatment at the end of the intervention. Albumin (P<0.001) and hemoglobin (P<0.001) levels increased in the intervention group, while there were no significant changes in these variables of the control group. Serum levels of ferritin did not show significant changes in either the intervention or the control group. Conclusion: Identifying nutritional barriers in breast cancer patients and individual diet therapy based on these barriers and nutritional needs reduces nutritional barriers. Consequently, malnutrition would decline, and the quality of life may enhance in these patients.

2007 ◽  
Vol 25 (28) ◽  
pp. 4387-4395 ◽  
Author(s):  
Alyson B. Moadel ◽  
Chirag Shah ◽  
Judith Wylie-Rosett ◽  
Melanie S. Harris ◽  
Sapana R. Patel ◽  
...  

Purpose This study examines the impact of yoga, including physical poses, breathing, and meditation exercises, on quality of life (QOL), fatigue, distressed mood, and spiritual well-being among a multiethnic sample of breast cancer patients. Patients and Methods One hundred twenty-eight patients (42% African American, 31% Hispanic) recruited from an urban cancer center were randomly assigned (2:1 ratio) to a 12-week yoga intervention (n = 84) or a 12-week waitlist control group (n = 44). Changes in QOL (eg, Functional Assessment of Cancer Therapy) from before random assignment (T1) to the 3-month follow-up (T3) were examined; predictors of adherence were also assessed. Nearly half of all patients were receiving medical treatment. Results Regression analyses indicated that the control group had a greater decrease in social well-being compared with the intervention group after controlling for baseline social well-being and covariates (P < .0001). Secondary analyses of 71 patients not receiving chemotherapy during the intervention period indicated favorable outcomes for the intervention group compared with the control group in overall QOL (P < .008), emotional well-being (P < .015), social well-being (P < .004), spiritual well-being (P < .009), and distressed mood (P < .031). Sixty-nine percent of intervention participants attended classes (mean number of classes attended by active class participants = 7.00 ± 3.80), with lower adherence associated with increased fatigue (P < .001), radiotherapy (P < .0001), younger age (P < .008), and no antiestrogen therapy (P < .02). Conclusion Despite limited adherence, this intent-to-treat analysis suggests that yoga is associated with beneficial effects on social functioning among a medically diverse sample of breast cancer survivors. Among patients not receiving chemotherapy, yoga appears to enhance emotional well-being and mood and may serve to buffer deterioration in both overall and specific domains of QOL.


2009 ◽  
Vol 27 (15_suppl) ◽  
pp. 9617-9617
Author(s):  
B. Oh ◽  
P. Butow ◽  
B. Mullan ◽  
S. Clarke ◽  
P. Beale ◽  
...  

9617 Background: The quality of life (QOL) of cancer patients is often diminished due to the side effects of treatment and symptoms of the disease itself. This study examines the impact of Medical Qigong (MQ), including gentle exercise and relaxation through meditation and breathing exercise based on the Chinese Medicine theory of energy channels, on quality of life (QOL), fatigue, side effects, mood status and inflammation. Methods: One hundred sixty two patients diagnosed with a range of cancers recruited from three university teaching hospitals were randomly assigned to two groups: a control group (n=83) that received usual health care and an intervention group (n=79) who participated in a MQ program for 10 weeks in addition to receiving usual health care at the hospital. Quality of life and symptoms were measured by the FACT-G, cancer related fatigue by FACT-F and mood status by POMS. The inflammatory marker serum C-reactive protein (CRP) was also monitored serially. Results: Regression analysis indicated that the MQ intervention group significantly improved on measures of overall QOL (t144= -5.761, p<0.001), fatigue (t153= -5.621, p<0.001), mood disturbance (t122=2.346, p=0.021) and inflammation (CRP) (t99=2.042, p<0.044) compared to the usual care control group after controlling for baseline variables. Analysis of the FACT-G subscales revealed that the MQ intervention group also significantly improved in satisfaction with sex life (t92=-3.783, p<0.001) and reduced side effects of nausea (t152=-2.071, p=0.040) and sleep disturbance (t150=-2.603, p=0.010) compared to the usual care control group. Pain was improved in both intervention and control groups. Conclusions: This study suggests that MQ with usual health care can improve overall QOL, fatigue, positive mood status and reduce the side effects of nausea, sleep disturbance and inflammation of cancer patients. This study supports the use of MQ as an intervention for cancer care. No significant financial relationships to disclose.


2019 ◽  
Vol 47 (6) ◽  
pp. 2607-2614 ◽  
Author(s):  
Fujie Yu ◽  
Yuanmei Li ◽  
Jiaqun Zou ◽  
Lisha Jiang ◽  
Chun Wang ◽  
...  

Objective To investigate the effects of the Chinese herbal medicine Xiaoaiping to treat chemotherapy-induced side effects in breast cancer patients. Methods Ninety-three adult patients who attended our hospital and met the entry criteria from January 2016 to December 2017 were included. Patients were randomly divided into the control group (routine chemotherapy only) and the combined group (routine chemotherapy and Xiaoaiping). Demographic data and clinical variables were collected, and side effects including alopecia, nausea and vomiting, diarrhea, white blood cell (WBC) count, aspartate aminotransferase (AST) levels, and the quality of life were evaluated. Results Basic clinical characteristics were not different between the groups. There were significantly fewer patients with alopecia grade 3–4, but significantly more patients with alopecia grade 1–2, in the combined group compared with the control group. Disease-free time for alopecia was longer in the combined compared with the control group. Overall, the side effects were significantly more serious in the control compared with the combined group. Patients in the combined group had better quality of life than the control patients. Conclusion Xiaoaiping can improve alopecia, nausea and vomiting, and diarrhea symptoms, WBC count, AST levels, and the quality of life in breast cancer patients.


2012 ◽  
Vol 30 (15_suppl) ◽  
pp. e16520-e16520
Author(s):  
Monika Klinkhammer-Schalke ◽  
Michael Koller ◽  
Brunhilde Steinger ◽  
Patricia Lindberg ◽  
Ferdinand Hofstädter ◽  
...  

e16520 Background: Many studies described deficits in quality of life (QoL) in cancer patients. We developed a new pathway with QoL diagnosis and treatment which was implemented as complex intervention with theory building, modeling, exploratory trial and RCT, integrated in a population based (2.1 mio) Tumorcenter. Methods: We conducted a two-armed, randomized clinical trial with 200 breast cancer patients.QoL was measured prospectively in 10 specific dimensions in first year after surgery. Along new QoL pathway patients in intervention group (IG) received QoL diagnosis and treatment consisting of 5 therapeutic options (eg physiotherapy, psychotherapy, social counseling). Members of control group (CG) received standard postoperative care. Primary endpoint was rate of patients with diseased QoL (<50 points on at least one scale with 0=bad, 100=good QoL). χ2-tests were performed to compare rates of diseased QoL (Klinkhammer-Schalke et al, BrJCancer, 2012). Results: At begin of study there were no significant differences in both groups considering QoL. 6 months after surgery rate of patients with diseased QoL was significantly lower for emotion in IG (19.8%) vs CG (38.4%, p=.007), and for global QoL almost reached significance in IG (17.6%) vs CG (29.8%, p=.064). For other dimensions (except family life) there was a trend showing better QoL in IG, but results were not significant. Rates of patients with diseased QoL in 10 dimensions 6 months after surgery in intervention group [%] vs control [%]: Global QoL 17.6% vs 29.8%!, Physical functioning 4.7% vs 5.7%, Role functioning 26.4% vs 29.9%, Arm symptoms 13.8% vs 23.3%, Body image 13.8% vs 22.1%, Pain 19.5% vs 24.4%, Emotion 19.8 %vs 38.4%xx, Concentration, remembering 10.5% vs 17.4%, Fatigue 37.9 %vs 46.5%, Family life, social encounters 17.4% vs 16.3% (χ2-test: p<.10!, p<.01xx). Conclusions: Results confirm effectiveness of QoL pathway: 6 months after surgery IG showed better QoL in 2 important dimensions. Lower rates of diseased QoL in other dimensions support the result. Cancer patients will benefit from the QoL system implemented in clinical routine (long term implementation).


2008 ◽  
Vol 36 (03) ◽  
pp. 459-472 ◽  
Author(s):  
Byeongsang Oh ◽  
Phyllis Butow ◽  
Barbara Mullan ◽  
Stephen Clarke

Quality of life (QOL) of cancer patients is often diminished due to the side effects of treatment and symptoms of the disease itself. Medical Qigong (coordination of gentle exercise and relaxation through meditation and breathing exercise based on Chinese medicine theory of energy channels) may be an effective therapy for improving QOL, symptoms and side effects, and longevity of cancer patients. In this pilot study, the feasibility, acceptability, and impact of Medical Qigong (MQ) were evaluated on outcomes in cancer patients. Thirty patients diagnosed with heterogeneous cancers, were randomly assigned to two groups: a control group that received usual medical care and an intervention group who participated in a MQ program for 8 weeks in addition to receiving usual medical care. Randomization was stratified by completion of cancer treatment ( n = 14) or under chemotherapy ( n = 16). Patients completed measures before and after the program. Quality of life and symptoms were measured by the EORTC QLQ-C 30 and progress of disease by the inflammation biomarker (CRP: c-reactive protein) via a blood test was assessed. The MQ intervention group reported clinically significant improved global QOL scores pre- and post-intervention. The MQ intervention also reduced the symptoms of side effects of cancer treatment and inflammation biomarker (CRP) compare to the control group. Due to the small sample size, however, the results were not statistically significant between treatment and the control groups. Data from the pilot study suggest that MQ with usual medical treatment can enhance the QOL of cancer patients and reduce inflammation. This study needs a further investigation with a larger sample size.


Trials ◽  
2020 ◽  
Vol 21 (1) ◽  
Author(s):  
Leonessa Boing ◽  
Tatiana do Bem Fretta ◽  
Melissa de Carvalho Souza Vieira ◽  
Gustavo Soares Pereira ◽  
Jéssica Moratelli ◽  
...  

Abstract Background Breast cancer is a global public health issue. The side effects of the clinical treatment can decrease the quality of life of these women. Therefore, a healthy lifestyle is essential to minimize the physical and psychological side effects of treatment. Physical activity has several benefits for women with breast cancer, and Pilates solo and belly dancing can be an enjoyable type of physical activity for women with breast cancer undergoing clinical treatment. The purpose of this study is to provide a Pilates solo and a belly dance protocol (three times per week/16 weeks) for women undergoing breast cancer treatment and compare its effectiveness with that in the control group. Methods The participants will be allocated to either the intervention arm (Pilates solo or belly dance classes three times per week for 16 weeks) or a control group (receipt of a booklet on physical activity for patients with breast cancer and maintenance of habitual physical activity routine). The Pilates solo and belly dance classes will be divided into three stages: warmup and stretching, the main stage, and relaxation. Measurements of the study outcomes will take place at baseline; postintervention; and 6, 12, and 24 months after the end of the intervention (maintenance period). The data collection for both groups will occur with a paper questionnaire and tests covering general and clinical information. The primary outcome will be quality of life (EORT QLQ-C30 and EORT QLQ-BR23), and secondary outcomes will be physical aspects such as cardiorespiratory fitness (6-min walk test and cycle ergometer), lymphedema (sum of arm circumference), physical activity (IPAQ short version), disabilities of the arm (DASH), range of motion (goniometer test), muscular strength (dynamometer test) and flexibility (sit and reach test), and psychological aspects such as depressive symptoms (Beck Depression Inventory), body image (Body Image After Breast Cancer Questionnaire), self-esteem (Rosenberg), fatigue (FACT-F), pain (VAS), sexual function (FSFI), and sleep quality (Pittsburgh Sleep Quality Index). Discussion In view of the high prevalence of breast cancer among women, the implementation of a specific protocol of Pilates solo and belly dancing for patients with breast cancer is important, considering the necessity to improve their physical and psychological quality of life. Pilates solo and belly dancing are two types of physical activity that involve mental and physical concentration, music, upper limb movements, femininity, and social involvement. An intervention with these two physical activities could offer options of supportive care to women with breast cancer undergoing treatment, with the aim being to improve physical and psychological quality of life. Trial registration ClinicalTrials.gov, NCT03194997. Registration date 12 August 2017. Universal Trial Number (World Health Organization), U1111-1195-1623.


Author(s):  
Marilot C. T. Batenburg ◽  
Wies Maarse ◽  
Femke van der Leij ◽  
Inge O. Baas ◽  
Onno Boonstra ◽  
...  

Abstract Purpose To evaluate symptoms of late radiation toxicity, side effects, and quality of life in breast cancer patients treated with hyperbaric oxygen therapy (HBOT). Methods For this cohort study breast cancer patients treated with HBOT in 5 Dutch facilities were eligible for inclusion. Breast cancer patients with late radiation toxicity treated with ≥ 20 HBOT sessions from 2015 to 2019 were included. Breast and arm symptoms, pain, and quality of life were assessed by means of the EORTC QLQ-C30 and -BR23 before, immediately after, and 3 months after HBOT on a scale of 0–100. Determinants associated with persistent breast pain after HBOT were assessed. Results 1005/1280 patients were included for analysis. Pain scores decreased significantly from 43.4 before HBOT to 29.7 after 3 months (p < 0.001). Breast symptoms decreased significantly from 44.6 at baseline to 28.9 at 3 months follow-up (p < 0.001) and arm symptoms decreased significantly from 38.2 at baseline to 27.4 at 3 months follow-up (p < 0.001). All quality of life domains improved at the end of HBOT and after 3 months follow-up in comparison to baseline scores. Most prevalent side effects of HBOT were myopia (any grade, n = 576, 57.3%) and mild barotrauma (n = 179, 17.8%). Moderate/severe side effects were reported in 3.2% (n = 32) of the patients. Active smoking during HBOT and shorter time (i.e., median 17.5 vs. 22.0 months) since radiotherapy were associated with persistent breast pain after HBOT. Conclusion Breast cancer patients with late radiation toxicity reported reduced pain, breast and arm symptoms, and improved quality of life following treatment with HBOT.


2020 ◽  
Vol 19 ◽  
pp. 153473542092475
Author(s):  
Julia Ruiz-Vozmediano ◽  
Sarah Löhnchen ◽  
Lucas Jurado ◽  
Rosario Recio ◽  
Andrea Rodríguez-Carrillo ◽  
...  

Background: Integrative oncology has proven to be a useful approach to control cancer symptoms and improve the quality of life (QoL) and overall health of patients, delivering integrated patient care at both physical and emotional levels. The objective of this randomized trial was to evaluate the effects of a triple intervention program on the QoL and lifestyle of women with breast cancer. Methods: Seventy-five survivors of stage IIA-IIB breast cancer were randomized into 2 groups. The intervention group (IG) received a 6-month dietary, exercise, and mindfulness program that was not offered to the control group (CG). Data were gathered at baseline and at 6 months postintervention on QoL and adherence to Mediterranean diet using clinical markers and validated questionnaires. Between-group differences at baseline and 3 months postintervention were analyzed using Student’s t test for related samples and the Wilcoxon and Mann-Whitney U tests. Results: At 6 months postintervention, the IG showed significant improvements versus CG in physical functioning ( p = .027), role functioning ( p = .028), and Mediterranean diet adherence ( p = .02) and a significant reduction in body mass index ( p = .04) and weight ( p = .05), with a mean weight loss of 0.7 kg versus a gain of 0.55 kg by the CG ( p = .05). Dyspnea symptoms were also increased in the CG versus IG ( p = .066). Conclusions: These results demonstrate that an integrative dietary, physical activity, and mindfulness program enhances the QoL and healthy lifestyle of stage IIA-IIB breast cancer survivors. Cancer symptoms may be better managed by the implementation of multimodal rather than isolated interventions.


2013 ◽  
Vol 31 (15_suppl) ◽  
pp. e20565-e20565
Author(s):  
Gabrielle Betty Rocque ◽  
Toby Christopher Campbell ◽  
Anne Elizabeth Barnett ◽  
Renae M Quale ◽  
Jens C. Eickhoff ◽  
...  

e20565 Background: Patients with advanced cancer who are hospitalized have high symptom burden and a short life expectancy, which may warrant PCC. Methods: Using sequential cohorts, we prospectively assessed implementation of automatic PCC for hospitalized cancer patients. The primary outcome was hospice utilization. Secondary outcomes included evaluation of changes in quality of life (FACIT-PAL), symptoms (ESAS), satisfaction (FAMCARE), and anxiety and depression (HADS). Surveys were administered at baseline, 2 weeks and 3 months post-hospitalization. Chart abstraction was utilized to assess demographics, resource use, and survival information. Results: Patients were evaluated consecutively (65 in the control group, 70 in the intervention). At admission, 91% reported uncontrolled symptoms: 52% pain; 15% dyspnea. 60% of intervention patients received PCC during their first admission. 54 patients completed surveys (29 control group, 25 PCC group), 64 patients declined or were unable to complete surveys, 16 patients were excluded due to language barriers, physician preference, or not receiving surveys. Using an intent-to-treat analysis, there was no difference between patients in the control and the intervention group in FACIT-PAL (119 ± 29 vs 123 ± 30, p = 0.68 ), ESAS (28 ± 14 vs 26 ± 15, p = 0.74) HADS (13 ± 6.6 vs. 12.± 4.7, p = 0.58), or FAMCARE (58 ± 9.1 vs 59 ± 8.6, p = 0.61). In both groups, patients had modest worsening of symptoms and quality of life over the course of the study. Survival and Health Services data analysis, including hospice referral, is proceeding. Conclusions: Automatic PPC had little impact on patient-reported symptoms and quality of life. Limitations included: small patient population; high rate of incomplete surveys, likely due to illness burden; penetration of the PCC was limited to 60% by patient or provider preference and consultant availability. Our primary outcome analysis (hospice utilization) is forthcoming, as are data on survival and Health Services outcomes.


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