Survivors of childhood cancer (CCS) are a vulnerable population. Compared to age matched peers they have an increased risk of second malignancies, cardiovascular disease (including stroke) and osteoporosis. In part, this may be a result of poor dietary habits, low levels of physical activity and excess adiposity. A healthy body weight has been associated with a decrease in morbidity and mortality from cancer, as well as preventing recurrence, improving survival for people diagnosed with cancer and improving quality of life. Our research shows that poor dietary and physical activity habits may manifest early after cancer therapy. There is a paucity of studies assessing lifestyle interventions in young CCS.
The overall aim of these projects is to develop interventions with patients and their carers early on to encourage healthy eating habits, participation in physical activity and establish a healthy body weight to prevent or decrease morbidity and mortality in CCS. The lifestyle interventions are designed to be feasible and acceptable to the CCS and their families. The studies will extend our previous work, translate our findings into real changes to survivor care as well as develop new lifestyle interventions.
Started: 1 July 2018
Ending: 30 June 2020
