Optimizing Fertility Treatment With Nutrition Guidance: Exploring Barriers and Facilitators to Healthful Nutrition Among Female Cancer Survivors With Fertility Challenges

Author:

Klobodu Cynthia12,Deutsch Jonathan1,Vitolins Mara Z.3,Fisher Kathleen1,Nasser Jennifer A.1,Stott Dahlia1,Milliron Brandy-Joe1ORCID

Affiliation:

1. Drexel University, Philadelphia, PA, USA

2. California State University Chico, Chico, CA, USA

3. Wake Forest School of Medicine, Winston-Salem, NC, USA

Abstract

Introduction: Young women diagnosed with cancer are at an increased risk for infertility compared to women without a cancer diagnosis. Consuming a healthful diet comprised of whole grains, fruits, vegetables, and unsaturated fats has been found to improve both fertility and cancer survivorship. Given this reason, dietary interventions tailored to support female cancer survivors with fertility challenges are of immense importance. Therefore, the aim of this study was to explore barriers and facilitators to healthful nutrition among female cancer survivors with fertility challenges, to inform the development of dietary interventions for this population. Methods: Using a formative research design, interview, survey, and dietary intake data were collected from 20 female cancer survivors of reproductive age. Participant-check focus group discussions were conducted to validate findings. All interviews were recorded and transcribed verbatim. Transcripts were coded and analyzed using a thematic analysis approach. Quantitative data were analyzed using means, standard deviations, ranges, frequencies, and percentages. Results: The average age of respondents was 31.47 ± 3.5 years and the average BMI was 24.78 ± 4.1 kg/m2. All participants were college educated, 45% identified as White, 50% as Black, and 10% as Hispanic or Latinx. Cancer diagnoses included breast, thyroid, ovarian, leukemia, and gastrointestinal cancers. The following themes were identified: (1) Lack of nutrition-related resources and detailed guidance, (2) Work-life balance, (3) Perceived rigidity of dietary guidance, (4) Treatment-related fatigue, (5) Having trust in healthcare providers, (6) Higher motivation to change nutrition behavior, and (7) Recognizing the additional benefits of nutrition. Conclusion: These findings indicate a sought-after yet unmet need for post-cancer treatment fertility nutrition recommendations. Interventions should be tailored to women’s needs and focus on improving their self-efficacy to make healthful dietary choices.

Funder

american society for parenteral and enteral nutrition rhoads research foundation

college of nursing and health professions, drexel university

Publisher

SAGE Publications

Subject

Complementary and alternative medicine,Oncology

Reference57 articles.

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