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Dissertation
Exploring the feasibility of incorporating nutrition-related lifestyle guidance into fertility counseling and treatment for female cancer survivors
Doctor of Philosophy (Ph.D.), Drexel University
Sep 2022
DOI:
https://doi.org/10.17918/00001361
Abstract
Introduction: Young women diagnosed with cancer have a 30% increased relative risk for infertility compared to women without a cancer diagnosis. Unhealthy weight gain and suboptimal dietary intake have been linked to both infertility and poor cancer survivorship. However, dietary interventions tailored to female cancer survivors with fertility challenges seem to be absent from practice. Therefore, the aim of this study was to explore nutrition-related perspectives and practices among female cancer survivors with fertility-related challenges and later integrate these findings into the development of dietary interventions for this population. Methods: Using a qualitative research design, in-depth interviews were conducted with 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. Results: The average age of respondents was 31.47 ± 3.5years 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. Themes identified included: (1) Inadequate fertility-related nutrition knowledge - looking for more information (2) Lack of nutrition-related resources and detailed guidance (3) Work-life balance (4) Rigid diets (5) Treatment-related fatigue (6) Motivation for a nutrition-related lifestyle guidance program - the need to take an active part in the fertility process and the need to be educated about nutrition for health in general (7) Expectations for nutrition programming - the need for detailed guidance, approachable healthcare providers/facilitators, flexibility of diet plans and the need to hear other women's experiences. Women had various preferences for nutrition programming pertaining to the format, timing and the number of nutrition guidance sessions. Conclusion: These findings indicate a sought after yet unmet need for dietary guidance for female cancer survivors as they navigate to improve their fertility and nutrition post-cancer treatment. Interventions should be tailored to women's need and should focus on improving their self-efficacy to make healthful dietary choices.
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Details
- Title
- Exploring the feasibility of incorporating nutrition-related lifestyle guidance into fertility counseling and treatment for female cancer survivors
- Creators
- Cynthia Nana Yaa Konadu Klobodu
- Contributors
- Brandy-Joe Milliron (Advisor)
- Awarding Institution
- Drexel University
- Degree Awarded
- Doctor of Philosophy (Ph.D.)
- Publisher
- Drexel University; Philadelphia, Pennsylvania
- Number of pages
- ix, 188 pages
- Resource Type
- Dissertation
- Language
- English
- Academic Unit
- Nutrition Sciences; College of Nursing and Health Professions; Drexel University
- Other Identifier
- 991019104808404721