American Cancer Society nutrition and physical activity guideline for cancer survivors.

The overall 5-year relative survival rate for all cancers combined is now 68%, and there are over 16.9 million survivors in the United States. Evidence from laboratory and observational studies suggests that factors such as diet, physical activity, and obesity may affect risk for recurrence and overall survival after a cancer diagnosis. The purpose of this American Cancer Society guideline is to provide evidence-based, cancer-specific recommendations for anthropometric parameters, physical activity, diet, and alcohol intake for reducing recurrence and cancer-specific and overall mortality. The audiences for this guideline are health care providers caring for cancer survivors as well as cancer survivors and their families. The guideline is intended to serve as a resource for informing American Cancer Society programs, health policy, and the media. Sources of evidence that form the basis of this guideline are systematic literature reviews, meta-analyses, pooled analyses of cohort studies, and large randomized clinical trials published since 2012. Recommendations for nutrition and physical activity during cancer treatment, informed by current practice, large cancer care organizations, and reviews of other expert bodies, are also presented. To provide additional context for the guidelines, the authors also include information on the relationship between health-related behaviors and comorbidities, long-term sequelae and patient-reported outcomes, and health disparities, with attention to enabling survivors' ability to adhere to recommendations. Approaches to meet survivors' needs are addressed as well as clinical care coordination and resources for nutrition and physical activity counseling after a cancer diagnosis.

Exercise is medicine in oncology: Engaging clinicians to help patients move through cancer.

Multiple organizations around the world have issued evidence-based exercise guidance for patients with cancer and cancer survivors. Recently, the American College of Sports Medicine has updated its exercise guidance for cancer prevention as well as for the prevention and treatment of a variety of cancer health-related outcomes (eg, fatigue, anxiety, depression, function, and quality of life). Despite these guidelines, the majority of people living with and beyond cancer are not regularly physically active. Among the reasons for this is a lack of clarity on the part of those who work in oncology clinical settings of their role in assessing, advising, and referring patients to exercise. The authors propose using the American College of Sports Medicine's Exercise Is Medicine initiative to address this practice gap. The simple proposal is for clinicians to assess, advise, and refer patients to either home-based or community-based exercise or for further evaluation and intervention in outpatient rehabilitation. To do this will require care coordination with appropriate professionals as well as change in the behaviors of clinicians, patients, and those who deliver the rehabilitation and exercise programming. Behavior change is one of many challenges to enacting the proposed practice changes. Other implementation challenges include capacity for triage and referral, the need for a program registry, costs and compensation, and workforce development. In conclusion, there is a call to action for key stakeholders to create the infrastructure and cultural adaptations needed so that all people living with and beyond cancer can be as active as is possible for them.

Weight management and physical activity throughout the cancer care continuum.

Mounting evidence suggests that weight management and physical activity (PA) improve overall health and well being, and reduce the risk of morbidity and mortality among cancer survivors. Although many opportunities exist to include weight management and PA in routine cancer care, several barriers remain. This review summarizes key topics addressed in a recent National Academies of Science, Engineering, and Medicine workshop entitled, "Incorporating Weight Management and Physical Activity Throughout the Cancer Care Continuum." Discussions related to body weight and PA among cancer survivors included: 1) current knowledge and gaps related to health outcomes; 2) effective intervention approaches; 3) addressing the needs of diverse populations of cancer survivors; 4) opportunities and challenges of workforce, care coordination, and technologies for program implementation; 5) models of care; and 6) program coverage. While more discoveries are still needed for the provision of optimal weight-management and PA programs for cancer survivors, obesity and inactivity currently jeopardize their overall health and quality of life. Actionable future directions are presented for research; practice and policy changes required to assure the availability of effective, affordable, and feasible weight management; and PA services for all cancer survivors as a part of their routine cancer care. CA Cancer J Clin 2018;68:64-89. © 2017 American Cancer Society.

Effects of a peer-led physical activity program on psychosocial outcomes among breast cancer survivors.

OBJECTIVE: To examine the effects of three programs aimed at maintaining moderate-to-vigorous physical activity (MVPA) on breast cancer survivors' quality of life, physical functioning, fatigue and mood. METHODS: 161 survivors participated in a 12-month randomized controlled study and were assigned to one of three groups: Reach Plus, Reach Plus Message, or Reach Plus Phone. All participants received the same intervention for the first 3 months (weekly calls from peer coach) for MVPA adoption. In Months 4-9, Reach Plus monitored MVPA and received feedback reports. Reach Plus Message monitored MVPA and received weekly text/email messages and feedback reports. Reach Plus Phone participants monitored MVPA and received monthly calls from coaches and feedback reports. Intervention delivery ended at 9 months. Assessments were obtained at baseline, 3, 6, 9, and 12-months. Analyses used a series of longitudinal mixed effects models with subject-specific intercepts. RESULTS: All groups improved significantly across time on psychosocial measures. At 9 months, Reach Plus Message and Reach Plus Phone reported better physical functioning compared to Reach Plus (b = 8.27, 95% CI: [2.27, 14.27]; b = 4.89, 95% CI: [0.01, 10.53]) respectively). At 12 months, Reach Plus Message reported better physical functioning than Reach Plus (b = 4.52, 95% CI: [0.01, 9.75]. Participants who met national PA guidelines reported significantly lower fatigue and higher physical functioning (at 9 and 12 months), and improved mood (at 12 months). CONCLUSIONS: MVPA maintenance via weekly messages or monthly coach calls improved physical functioning. Maintaining MVPA at or above national recommendations was associated with improved physical functioning, mood and less fatigue.

Designing viable, durable physical activity programs for cancer survivors: reflections from program participants and organizational leaders.

PURPOSE: Despite recommendations for cancer survivors to participate in routine physical activity (PA), offering programs that fit both survivors' needs and sponsoring organizations' resources remains a challenge. The purpose of this study is to explore the perspectives of cancer survivors and organizational stakeholders with the intent of developing PA peer-led programs that organizations can implement into their programming. METHODS: This study explored cancer survivors' (n = 11) and cancer care organizational stakeholders' (n = 27) perspectives on the design and feasibility of PA programs targeted for cancer survivors. Semi-structured interview guides were developed for survivors and stakeholders; interviews lasted approximately 30 min. Two analysts used a thematic analysis approach and independently conducted a line-by-line coding of each transcript. With guidance from a senior analyst, the codes were collapsed into themes and subthemes. RESULTS: The qualitative analysis of the interview data resulted in seven major themes relating to PA program development and success. Survivor-related themes included the following: (1) developing PA programs based on cancer survivors' characteristics and experiences; (2) perceived value and importance of accessible, face-to-face instruction; (3) ensuring success based on physical abilities and limitations of the survivor; and (4) the value of physician recommendation for PA participation. Organization-related themes included the following: (1) incorporating participant and community input into program offerings; (2) program feasibility and sustainability; (3) incorporating organizational experience when adopting new program initiatives. CONCLUSION: These findings highlight the challenges of developing viable PA programs for cancer survivors and may guide organizations in future program development and implementation.

Effect of an mHealth intervention on physical activity outcomes among young adult cancer survivors: The IMPACT randomized controlled trial.

BACKGROUND: Physical inactivity is common in young adult cancer survivors (YACS), but evidence regarding effects of physical activity (PA) interventions among YACS is limited. The IMproving Physical Activity after Cancer Treatment (IMPACT) trial evaluated a theory-based mobile PA intervention on total PA minutes/week (primary) and secondary outcomes (moderate-to-vigorous PA [MVPA], light PA, steps, sedentary behaviors) at 6 months in YACS. METHODS: YACS (N = 280) were randomized to an intervention group or self-help group. All participants received digital tools (activity tracker, smart scale, access to arm-specific Facebook group) and an individual video chat session. Intervention participants also received a 6-month program with behavioral lessons, adaptive goal-setting, tailored feedback, tailored text messages, and Facebook prompts. PA was assessed via accelerometry and questionnaires at baseline and 6 months. Generalized estimating equation analyses tested between-group differences in changes over time. RESULTS: Of 280 YACS, 251 (90%) completed the 6-month accelerometry measures. Accelerometer-measured total PA minutes/week changed from 1974.26 at baseline to 2024.34 at 6 months in the intervention (mean change, 55.14 [95% CI, -40.91 to 151.19]) and from 1814.93 to 1877.68 in the self-help group (40.94 [95% CI, -62.14 to 144.02]; between-group p = .84). Increases in MVPA were +24.67 minutes/week (95% CI, 14.77-34.57) in the intervention versus +11.41 minutes/week in the self-help (95% CI, 1.44-21.38; between-group p = .07). CONCLUSION: Although the intervention did not result in significant differences in total PA, the increase in MVPA relative to the self-help group might be associated with important health benefits. Future research should examine moderators to identify for whom, and under what conditions, the intervention might be effective. CLINICALTRIALS: gov Identifier: NCT03569605. PLAIN LANGUAGE SUMMARY: Physical inactivity is common in young adult cancer survivors. However, few interventions have focused on helping young adult cancer survivors to get more physical activity. The IMproving Physical Activity after Cancer Treatment trial compared a mobile health physical activity intervention with a self-help group on total amount of physical activity at 6 months in a nationwide sample of young adult cancer survivors. Intervention participants did not improve their total amount of physical activity, but they did increase their moderate-to-vigorous intensity physical activity by twice as much as the self-help participants. This increase in activity may be associated with health benefits.

Mediators of physical activity outcomes in a peer-led intervention for breast cancer survivors.

OBJECTIVES: Physical activity (PA) adoption can reduce treatment-related sequelae of breast cancer. Peer-led PA interventions are a promising and relatively inexpensive approach to scaling up interventions. The current study seeks to identify mediators of PA change amongst cancer survivors enrolled in a peer-led behavior change intervention. The study team partnered with the American Cancer Society's Reach to Recovery program (RTR) whose volunteers' provided information and support to breast cancer survivors. METHODS: Participants were 76 survivors (mean age 55.6 years, 1.1 years since diagnosis) who were randomized to PA Plus RTR (12-week PA telephone counseling delivered by RTR volunteers) or contact control. Data was collected on PA (self-reported and objectively measured) and potential mediators (self-efficacy, exercise decisional balance [ratio of the pros/advantages to the cons/disadvantages] and social support) at baseline and 12 weeks. Using a multiple mediation approach with bootstrapped standard errors, we examined mediators of the intervention effect on PA outcomes. RESULTS: Compared to control, PA Plus RTR participants had higher mean self-efficacy, lower decisional balance cons and social support at 12 weeks controlling for baseline. Higher mean self-efficacy was associated with greater minutes of self-reported PA, whereas higher decisional balance pros was associated with higher objectively measured PA at 12 weeks. There were significant indirect effects of self-efficacy on self-reported PA and decisional balance on objectively measured PA. CONCLUSIONS: PA Plus RTR increased self-reported and objectively measured PA by changing theoretical constructs hypothesized to be associated with behavior change. Peers delivering a PA intervention should focus on increasing survivors' self-efficacy for exercise especially in challenging circumstances such as being on vacation, and also help to overcome disadvantages of exercise such as taking time away from family.

Mediators of physical activity maintenance during a 12-month randomized controlled trial among breast Cancer survivors.

PURPOSE: To explore the theoretical constructs that functioned as mediators of interventions for moderate-to-vigorous physical activity (MVPA) maintenance among breast cancer survivors. METHOD: 161 survivors were randomized into 3 groups: Reach Plus, Reach Plus Message or Reach Plus Phone. All participants received a 3-month theory-based intervention delivered by volunteer coaches. During months 4-9, all participants monitored their MVPA and received feedback reports. Additionally, Reach Plus Message received weekly text/email messages and Reach Plus Phone received monthly calls from their coaches. Assessments of weekly MVPA minutes and theoretical constructs (self-efficacy, social support, physical activity [PA] enjoyment and PA barriers) were obtained at baseline, 3, 6, 9 and 12-months. ANALYSES: Using a multiple mediator analysis with a product of coefficients approach, we examined mechanisms associated with between-group differences over time in weekly MVPA minutes. RESULTS: Self-efficacy mediated effects of Reach Plus Message vs. Reach Plus at 6 (ab = 16.99) and 9 M (ab = 27.45); social support mediated effects at 6 (ab = 4.86), 9 (ab = 14.30) and 12 M (ab = 6.18). Self-efficacy mediated effects of Reach Plus Phone vs. Reach Plus at 6 (ab = 18.76), 9 (ab = 28.93) and 12 M (ab = 18.18). Social support mediated effects of Reach Plus Phone vs. Reach Plus Message at 6 (ab=-5.50) and 9 M (ab=-13.20); PA enjoyment mediated effects at 12 M (ab=-3.63). CONCLUSIONS: PA maintenance efforts should focus on strengthening breast cancer survivors' self-efficacy and obtaining social support.The trial was registered at ClinicalTrials.Gov: NCT02694640 (Feb. 26, 2016).

Physical Activity Adoption and Maintenance Among Breast Cancer Survivors: A Randomized Trial of Peer Mentoring.

BACKGROUND: Peer support can extend the reach of physical activity (PA) interventions. In previous studies, peer support via weekly counseling calls increased PA at 3 and 6 months among breast cancer survivors, compared to contact control. However, effects were attenuated at 6 months. Interventions targeting PA maintenance among cancer survivors are limited. Hence, we extended prior work to identify effective PA maintenance interventions. PURPOSE: Following a 3-month PA intervention, the study compared the effects of three 6-month interventions on PA at 12 months. METHODS: One hundred and sixty-one inactive breast cancer survivors participated in a 12-month randomized controlled trial. Intervention delivery was uniform for the first 3-months: all participants received a weekly call with their peer coach to encourage PA. Following month 3, participants self-monitored PA and received feedback reports (Reach Plus) or additionally received, a monthly phone call (Reach Plus Phone), or weekly text message (Reach Plus Message). Moderate-to-vigorous PA (MVPA) was measured using self-report (7 Day PAR) and accelerometry at baseline, 3, 6, 9, and 12 months. RESULTS: At 3 months, there were significant within group increases in self-reported and objectively measured MVPA with no between-group differences (ps > .05). At 6 months, adjusted longitudinal models showed that Reach Plus Message reported an additional 23.83 (SD = 6.33, f2 = .12) min/week of MVPA and Reach Plus Phone reported an additional 18.14 min/week (SD = 5.15, f2 =.16) versus Reach Plus. Results were similar at 9 months. At 12 months, Reach Plus Message and Reach Plus Phone both out-performed Reach Plus (ps = .04 and .05 respectively and effect sizes f2 = .11 and f2 = .21 respectively). Accelerometer data showed similar patterns: Reach Plus Message and Reach Plus Phone out-performed Reach Plus at 6 (f2 = .20) and 9 months (f2 = .09). CONCLUSION: Phone calls from peer mentors and text messaging can support PA maintenance among breast cancer survivors. CLINICAL TRIAL INFORMATION: ClinicalTrials.Gov NCT02694640.

A 'novel' multi-component approach to promote physical activity among older cancer survivors: a pilot randomized controlled trial.

BACKGROUND: Physical activity (PA) provides many benefits for recovery from cancer treatments. Many older (65+ years) cancer survivors which comprise the majority of the cancer survivor population, do not meet recommended PA guidelines. This study explored the feasibility and acceptability of using audiobooks as part of a 12-week multi-component intervention to increase steps/day, light and moderate-to-vigorous intensity PA among older survivors. METHODS: Twenty older cancer survivors (95% female, mean age = 71.55 years, 90% White, 85% overweight/obese, 75% breast cancer survivors, mean 1.96 years since treatment completion) were randomized into one of the two study groups (Audiobook Group, n = 12, Comparison Group, n = 8). Both study groups were provided a tailored step goal program over the 12-week intervention; weekly step increases were based on a percent increase from baseline. Participant self-monitored their steps using a Fitbit Charge 2. In addition, the Audiobook group were encouraged to listen to audiobooks (downloaded onto a smartphone device via an app available at no cost from the local library) during PA to add enjoyment and increase PA. Regression analyses on steps/day, light and moderate-to-vigorous PA/week and sedentary time/week as assessed by the Actigraph were conducted, after adjusting for Actigraph wear time. Data from the post-intervention questionnaire were summarized. RESULTS: Overall, majority of participants (89%) stated they were very satisfied with their participation and 100% reported that they were able to maintain their activity upon study completion. Retention rates were high. At post-intervention, there were significant differences favoring the Audiobook group for steps/day and moderate-to-vigorous PA/week. No significant group differences were found for minutes of light intensity PA/week and sedentary time/week. CONCLUSION: Piloting the implementation of a sustainable, innovative intervention among older survivors to increase their PA has significance for this group of survivors.

Pivoting Nursing Research and Scholarship During the COVID-19 Pandemic.

BACKGROUND: The global COVID-19 pandemic has brought numerous challenges for conducting the human subjects research needed to advance science and improve health. OBJECTIVES: The purpose of this article is to discuss how a college of nursing at a large public university in the southeast United States has responded to the challenges of conducting research during the novel COVID-19 pandemic. METHODS: Seven faculty researchers at the University of South Carolina College of Nursing share their experiences in overcoming the unique challenges of conducting research because of the COVID-19 pandemic. Strategies to overcome the challenges posed by COVID-19 are presented within the context of the research process, career implications, communication, and maintaining morale. RESULTS: Fears of COVID-19 and social distancing measures have hindered participant recruitment, enrollment, and involvement in ongoing studies. Increasing virtual technology use and enhancing safety precautions have assisted researchers to overcome barriers. Scholarly writing has increased for some faculty members whose studies have been stalled by the pandemic, yet others have seen a decline because of additional personal responsibilities. The careers of faculty members across all ranks have been uniquely affected by the pandemic. With most faculty working remotely, enhanced communication strategies at the university and college have supported the research enterprise. Morale has been adversely affected, but a variety of personal and collegial efforts have helped faculty cope and preserve a sense of normalcy during this devastating pandemic. DISCUSSION: Faculty and their ability to conduct the research needed to inform clinical and public health practice have been adversely affected by the COVID-19 pandemic. Despite the challenges of conducting research during this unprecedented crisis, faculty and institutions are taking novel steps to ensure the continuity of scientific progress for improving the health and well-being of patients and populations.

Mediators of physical activity adoption and maintenance among breast cancer survivors.

The purpose of this study is to explore the mediators associated with physical activity (PA) within the adoption and maintenance phase of a PA intervention trial among breast cancer survivors. Overall, 192 breast cancer survivors (average age = 55.9 years) were randomized to an Intervention or Control group. Both groups received 8 calls in the first 3-months, 3 monthly calls, and then entered a no-contact maintenance phase for the remaining 6-months. Assessments were completed at baseline, 3-months, 6-months and 12-months. On average, participants were 55.9 years of age (SD = 9.8) and 2.9 years since diagnosis (SD = 2.2). In the adoption phase, all significant univariate mediators (self-efficacy, cognitive and behavioral processes and decisional balance cons) were included in the multivariate model. Results suggest self-efficacy (ab = 13.56, SE = 7.04) and behavioral processes (ab = 36.10, SE = 12.22) were significant for PA adoption. No mediators were identified in the maintenance phase. In the adoption phase, there were significant indirect effects of group on PA adoption through self-efficacy and behavioral processes. There were no indirect effects of group on PA maintenance.

Systematic review and meta-analysis of maintenance of physical activity behaviour change in cancer survivors.

BACKGROUND: Physical activity can improve health and wellbeing after cancer and may reduce cancer recurrence and mortality. To achieve such long-term benefits cancer survivors must be habitually active. This review evaluates the effectiveness of interventions in supporting maintenance of physical activity behaviour change among adults diagnosed with cancer and explores which intervention components and contextual features are associated with effectiveness. METHODS: Relevant randomised controlled trials (RCTs) were identified by a search of Ovid Medline, Ovid Embase and PsychINFO. Trials including adults diagnosed with cancer, assessed an intervention targeting physical activity and reported physical activity behaviour at baseline and ≥ 3 months post-intervention were included. The behaviour change technique (BCT) taxonomy was used to identify intervention components and the Template for Intervention Description and Replication to capture contextual features. Random effect meta-analysis explored between and within group differences in physical activity behaviour. Standardised mean differences (SMD) describe effect size. RESULTS: Twenty seven RCTs were included, 19 were pooled in meta-analyses. Interventions were effective at changing long-term behaviour; SMD in moderate to vigorous physical activity (MVPA) between groups 0.25; 95% CI = 0.16-0.35. Within-group pre-post intervention analysis yielded a mean increase of 27.48 (95% CI = 11.48-43.49) mins/wk. of MVPA in control groups and 65.30 (95% CI = 45.59-85.01) mins/wk. of MVPA in intervention groups. Ineffective interventions tended to include older populations with existing physical limitations, had fewer contacts with participants, were less likely to include a supervised element or the BCTs of 'action planning', 'graded tasks' and 'social support (unspecified)'. Included studies were biased towards inclusion of younger, female, well-educated and white populations who were already engaging in some physical activity. CONCLUSIONS: Existing interventions are effective in achieving modest increases in physical activity at least 3 months post-intervention completion. Small improvements were also evident in control groups suggesting low-intensity interventions may be sufficient in promoting small changes in behaviour that last beyond intervention completion. However, study samples are not representative of typical cancer populations. Interventions should consider a stepped-care approach, providing more intensive support for older people with physical limitations and others less likely to engage in these interventions.

Change in physical activity and quality of life in endometrial cancer survivors receiving a physical activity intervention.

BACKGROUND: Endometrial cancer survivors are at an increased risk of poor quality of life outcomes. Physical activity is positively associated with general quality of life in this population, however, little is known about how changes in physical activity may be associated with changes in specific aspects of quality of life. The aim of this secondary data analysis was to explore the relationships between change in physical activity and change in physical, mental, social, and other aspects of quality of life in endometrial cancer survivors receiving a physical activity intervention. METHODS: Endometrial cancer survivors (N = 100) participated in a telephone-based physical activity intervention for six months. At baseline and post-intervention we measured physical activity via accelerometry and ecological momentary assessment, and quality of life via the Short Form Health Survey (SF-36), the Quality of Life of Adult Cancer Survivors instrument, the Brief Symptom Inventory, the Pittsburgh Sleep Quality Index, and the Perceived Stress Scale. We conducted structural equation modeling path analyses to investigate how physical activity post-intervention was associated with the quality of life measures' subscales post-intervention, adjusting for baseline levels and potentially confounding covariates. RESULTS: Increasing physical activity was positively associated with improvements in general health (p = .044), role limitation due to physical health (p = .005), pain (p = .041), and somatic distress (p = .023). There was no evidence to indicate that change in physical activity was associated with change in other aspects of quality of life. CONCLUSIONS: Endometrial cancer survivors are at higher risk for suffering from challenges to physical quality of life, and findings from this study suggest that increasing physical activity may alleviate some of these problems. Further research is needed to determine whether other aspects of quality of life are linked to change in physical activity. TRIAL REGISTRATION: Trial registration number: NCT00501761 Name of registry: clinicaltrials.gov Date of registration: July 16, 2007. Date of enrollment: June 16, 2005.

Predictors of sedentary behavior among colorectal survivors.

PURPOSE: Colorectal cancer (CRC) survivors spend approximately 9 h per day in sedentary behavior (SED), despite recommendations to reduce sitting time. The purpose of this study was to examine predictors of SED among CRC survivors over a 1-year duration. METHODS: Male and female CRC survivors (< 5 years since diagnosis) participated in a 12-week moderate-to-vigorous physical activity randomized controlled trial. To measure SED, participants were given a CSA monitor to wear for three consecutive days (including one weekend day). Additionally, fitness (Treadmill walk test), body composition (bioelectrical impedance analysis) and questionnaires (Profile of Mood States, Exercise Processes of Change and Self-Efficacy for Exercise) were administered. Follow-up assessments were completed at a 3-month, 6-month, and 12-month follow-up. RESULTS: Forty-six colorectal survivors (average age = 57.3 ± 9.7 years) completed the 12-month study. Using latent class models, four classes of SED behavior over time were identified: class 1 (high and sustained SED over time), class 2 (low and sustain SED over time), class 3 (increasing SED over time), and class 4 (high SED through 6-months, followed be a marked decrease at 12-months). Males were more likely to be in class 1, while majority of females were in class 3. Those CRC survivors with a better mood at baseline were in class 2, while those with poor fitness, high body fat, and higher cognitive processes at baseline were in class 3. CONCLUSION: Identifying the characteristics of survivors who engage in high SED can help healthcare providers to target their efforts to reduce SED.

Association of Body Esteem with Fitness and Body Fat Among Colorectal Cancer Survivors: Secondary Analyses from a Randomized Trial.

BACKGROUND: Survival rates among cancer survivors have improved; however, treatments affect body esteem. Body esteem can significantly affect quality of life and depression following cancer treatment. The purpose of these secondary analyses was to examine the relationship between changes in fitness and body fat with changes in body esteem among colorectal cancer survivors who participated in a randomized controlled trial that tested the effects of a 12-week physical activity intervention. METHOD: Male and female colorectal cancer survivors (< 5 years since diagnosis) participated in a randomized controlled trial that tested a 12-week moderate-intensity physical activity intervention. Body esteem, fitness (estimated VO2 peak), and body composition (bioelectrical impedance) were assessed at baseline and follow-up visits (3 months, 6 months, and 12 months). RESULTS: Forty-six colorectal cancer survivors (57 years old, 57% female) completed the study. Improvements in fitness were associated with improvements in body esteem among males at 6-month and 12-month follow-up visits, while improvements in body fat were associated with increased body esteem at 12-month follow-up among females. Improvements in fitness and body fat among stage 0-2 survivors were associated with significant improvements in body esteem, with no significant changes among stage 3 survivors. CONCLUSION: Results from this study showed that improved fitness and body composition can improve body esteem among these survivors; however, differences exist among gender and disease stage. TRIAL REGISTRATION: https://clinicaltrials.gov/ct2/show/NCT00230646?term=Pinto&cond=Colorectal+Cancer&rank=2.

Rebuilding the research enterprise of a historical research intensive college of nursing.

BACKGROUND: Maintaining a productive research enterprise within a college of nursing is multifaceted and complex. It is especially challenging when a college's mission transitions to address other priorities, and later attempts to re-emerge in the competitive funding environment and re-establish a productive research portfolio. PURPOSE: To describe how a college is rebuilding the research enterprise to meet the established research mission after a decade of marginal research productivity. STRATEGIES: Targeted multi-level strategies at the university, college, and individual levels are being implemented to enhance the research infrastructure and faculty capacity to increase research productivity. IMPACT: In the past five years, compared to the previous five years, annual faculty publications have doubled, annual extramural funding per tenure track faculty increased by 72%, and the College's average extramural sponsored award funding per year increased 118%. National Institutes for Research rankings moved from no ranking (2013) to top 31 (2017). DISCUSSION: Early results are positive and efforts to maintain and further grow the research enterprise will require sustained effort to meet ongoing challenges.

A community-based partnership to promote exercise among cancer survivors: lessons learned.

PURPOSE: We conducted a randomized controlled trial in partnership with a community-based organization (CBO) to examine the effects of peer mentoring to promote exercise among cancer survivors. At the end of the trial, to prepare for future program implementation on a larger scale, we obtained input from the CBO on the key elements that influenced the decision to collaborate, facilitators and challenges during the trial, and recommendations for program marketing. METHODS: Structured telephone interviews were conducted with ten stakeholders at various job levels within the CBO. Notes of the interviews were coded, and themes were extracted independently by two study members. RESULTS: Five themes were identified: costs of the partnership, its benefits, importance of communication, match of the trial goals with the CBO's mission, and achieving a balance between research and job tasks. Techniques to address these themes and improve implementation of the program are described. CONCLUSIONS: The themes identified can guide evidence-based programs in planning implementation that involves partnerships with CBOs.

Smoking related cancers: a brief report on problem solving, distress, and risk behaviors in patients and caregivers.

Cancer diagnoses may adversely affect emotional functioning in patients and their caregivers, which in turn may increase risk behaviors, such as tobacco and alcohol use. This study investigates the relationships among problem-solving ability, distress, and risk behaviors in patients with head/neck and lung cancer and their caregivers. The authors hypothesized that patients and caregivers who experienced higher distress would engage in more risk behaviors, but that Social Problem-Solving (SPS) would moderate this effect, in that those who possessed greater SPS ability would engage in fewer risk behaviors. Twenty-one cancer patients and 11 of their caregivers were surveyed shortly after diagnosis. Participants completed the Profile of Mood States, the Social Problem-Solving Inventory-Revised, and measures of tobacco and alcohol use. Total SPS ability was higher in patients than caregivers but generally low in both groups. Total distress was lower in patients compared to caregivers. Mean comparisons indicated that caregivers smoked more cigarettes per day and consumed more alcohol than patients. Results indicate that patients and caregivers may have a decreased ability to solve problems, and that caregivers engage in more frequent risk behaviors than patients, suggesting that caregivers may be at risk and warrant further study. The study design prevents causative conclusions and limited sample size prohibits more complex analyses. Further research on social problem-solving ability, distress, and risk behaviors may reveal more robust relationships and provide insight for intervention development for these groups.