Patient-Reported Observance of a Mediterranean Diet and Physical Activity in Patients Living with Breast Cancer: Implications for Primary Care Providers.

backgroundNutrition and physical activity are critical aspects of breast cancer care. Primary care is poised to be central to survivorship care as the number of breast cancer survivors increases. National cancer societies' recommendations suggest optimizing diet and physical activity and reducing sedentary behavior.

objectiveTo evaluate adherence to a Mediterranean diet, levels of physical activity, and levels of sedentary behavior among a midwestern cohort of patients living with breast cancer, and to identify barriers to healthy eating.

methodsA survey consisting of the Mediterranean Diet Adherence Screener (MEDAS), a screener for physical activity and sedentary behavior screening, as well as barriers to healthy eating was administered to patients attending oncology visits at an academic medical center.

resultsResults indicate a weak adherence to the Mediterranean diet. The MEDAS was correlated with minutes of moderate-intensity activity but not with vigorous activity or sedentary time. More than two thirds of patients reported at least 1 barrier to healthy eating, including unpredictable schedules, depression/low energy, and difficulty preparing meals for 1 to 2 people.

conclusionThe majority of patients living with breast cancer did not meet the minimal national recommendations. These findings underscore the need for further research to develop strategies to optimize nutrition and physical activity within oncology and primary care settings.