A Cancer Center Multidisciplinary Lifestyle Medicine Clinic: Description of Program and Patient Population

Abstract

Background Cancer survivorship guidelines emphasize Lifestyle Medicine (LM) pillars, including physical activity, healthy eating, restorative sleep, stress management, and avoiding risky substance use. We describe the development and patient population of a multidisciplinary LM clinic in oncology. Methods The clinic launched virtually in 2020. Patients had same-day consultations with an oncologist/nurse practitioner, nutritionist, and psychologist. Patients completed a one-time online survey assessing demographics, quality of life, LM pillars, and mental health. Descriptive statistics were used to characterize the population. Results Seventy-six patients took the survey (July 2020-January 2023). Most were female, non-Hispanic White, with early-stage cancers. The mean BMI was 30 kg/m2. A minority of patients met aerobic physical activity (27.6%) and dietary (28.6%) recommendations. Two-thirds (67%) reported sleep difficulties, and 30%–36% reported elevated anxiety/depression. Over half (53.3%) gained weight due to cancer treatment and 78.7% were trying to lose weight. Conclusion This paper details the baseline LM needs of cancer survivors seeking lifestyle consultation and describes the development of the clinic to address these concerns. Patients were open to evaluation and treatment in an oncology-focused LM clinic. This clinic model has potential to improve quality of life for survivors.