(P16-027-25) Effects of a Social Cognitive Theory-Based Nutrition and Exercise Program for Cancer Survivors on Self-Efficacy and Patient-Reported Outcomes

Objectives: Theory-based interventions target psychosocial mediators to improve modifiable lifestyle behaviors. Evaluating impact on behavioral constructs and patient-reported outcomes (PROs) aids in understanding how these factors influence program efficacy. The objectives were to evaluate an integrated nutrition and exercise program to: (1) assess change in self-efficacy for achieving recommended health behaviors and (2) explore effects on PROs.

Methods: Cancer survivors (n=11) not meeting diet and physical activity guidelines (100% female, 91% White, age 56.3±10.1 years, BMI 32.6±4.5 kg/m²) completed a 12-week single-arm proof-of-concept trial of an integrated nutrition and exercise program designed to increase adherence to lifestyle recommendations for cancer prevention and survivorship. Data were collected via standardized questionnaires at baseline and week 12. Self-efficacy for adherence to eight health behaviors was assessed via 10-point Likert scale, health-related quality of life via the Functional Assessment of Cancer Therapy-General (FACT-G), fatigue via the EORTC Quality of Life Module Measuring Cancer Related Fatigue (EORTC QLQ-FA12), and anxiety and depression by the Hospital Anxiety and Depression Scale (HADS). Changes were evaluated via one-way repeated measures ANOVA and are expressed as mean difference (95% CI).

Results: Total self-efficacy improved from baseline to 12 weeks (10.32 (3.61, 17.03)). Participants reported increased confidence in ability to maintain a healthy weight (2.90 (0.77, 5.02)), be physically active (1.06 (0.07, 2.18)), eat a diet rich in fruits, vegetables, and whole grains (1.12 (0.29, 1.95)) and limit consumption of fast foods (1.38 (0.09, 2.67)). The social/family well-being domain of the FACT-G increased from baseline to 12 weeks (1.49 (0.17, 2.81)). Symptoms of physical fatigue and HADS depression scores decreased over 12 weeks (-0.30 (-0.55, -0.06) and -1.42 (-2.72, -0.12), respectively).

Conclusions: An integrated nutrition and exercise program for cancer survivors may improve self-efficacy for meeting lifestyle recommendations and positively influence PROs. These factors will be evaluated as potential mediators or moderators of effect in an ongoing pilot optimization trial.

Funding Sources: University of Colorado Cancer Center