Plant-based diet associated with better quality of life in prostate cancer survivors.

BACKGROUND: Plant-based diets have many health benefits, including a lower risk of fatal prostate cancer, and greater environmental sustainability. However, less is known regarding the impact of plant-based diets on quality of life among individuals diagnosed with prostate cancer. The authors' objective was to examine the relationship between plant-based diet indices postdiagnosis with quality of life. METHODS: This prospective cohort study included 3505 participants in the Health Professionals Follow-Up Study (1986-2016) with nonmetastatic prostate cancer. Food-frequency questionnaires were used to calculate overall and healthful plant-based diet indices. Quality-of-life scores were calculated using the Expanded Prostate Cancer Index Composite. Generalized estimating equations were used to examine associations over time between plant-based diet indices and quality-of-life domains (sexual functioning, urinary irritation/obstruction, urinary incontinence, bowel functioning, hormonal/vitality), adjusted for demographics, oncologic history, body mass index, caloric intake, health-related behaviors, and comorbidities. RESULTS: The median age at prostate cancer diagnosis was 68 years; 48% of patients underwent radical prostatectomy, and 35% received radiation as primary therapy. The median time from diagnosis/treatment to first the quality-of-life questionnaire was 7.0 years. A higher plant-based diet index was associated with better scores for sexual function, urinary irritation/obstruction, urinary incontinence, and hormonal/vitality. Consuming more healthful plant-based foods was also associated with better sexual and bowel function, as well as urinary incontinence and hormonal/vitality scores in the age-adjusted analysis, but not in the multivariable analysis. CONCLUSIONS: This prospective study provides supportive evidence that greater consumption of healthful plant-based foods is associated with modestly higher scores in quality-of-life domains among patients with prostate cancer.

The impact of genomic biomarkers on a clinical risk prediction model for upgrading/upstaging among men with favorable-risk prostate cancer.

BACKGROUND: The challenge of distinguishing indolent from aggressive prostate cancer (PCa) complicates decision-making for men considering active surveillance (AS). Genomic classifiers (GCs) may improve risk stratification by predicting end points such as upgrading or upstaging (UG/US). The aim of this study was to assess the impact of GCs on UG/US risk prediction in a clinicopathologic model. METHODS: Participants had favorable-risk PCa (cT1-2, prostate-specific antigen [PSA] ≤15 ng/mL, and Gleason grade group 1 [GG1]/low-volume GG2). A prediction model was developed for 864 men at the University of California, San Francisco, with standard clinical variables (cohort 1), and the model was validated for 2267 participants from the Cancer of the Prostate Strategic Urologic Research Endeavor (CaPSURE) registry (cohort 2). Logistic regression was used to compute the area under the receiver operating characteristic curve (AUC) to develop a prediction model for UG/US at prostatectomy. A GC (Oncotype Dx Genomic Prostate Score [GPS] or Prolaris) was then assessed to improve risk prediction. RESULTS: The prediction model included biopsy GG1 versus GG2 (odds ratio [OR], 5.83; 95% confidence interval [CI], 3.73-9.10); PSA (OR, 1.10; 95% CI, 1.01-1.20; per 1 ng/mL), percent positive cores (OR, 1.01; 95% CI, 1.01-1.02; per 1%), prostate volume (OR, 0.98; 95% CI, 0.97-0.99; per mL), and age (OR, 1.05; 95% CI, 1.02-1.07; per year), with AUC 0.70 (cohort 1) and AUC 0.69 (cohort 2). GPS was associated with UG/US (OR, 1.03; 95% CI, 1.01-1.06; p < .01) and AUC 0.72, which indicates a comparable performance to the prediction model. CONCLUSIONS: GCs did not substantially improve a clinical prediction model for UG/US, a short-term and imperfect surrogate for clinically relevant disease outcomes.

Diabetes and incidence of breast cancer and its molecular subtypes: A systematic review and meta-analysis.

Diabetes mellitus (DM) has been proposed to be positively associated with breast cancer (BCa) risk due to shared risk factors, metabolic dysfunction, and the use of antidiabetic medications. We conducted a systematic review and meta-analysis to evaluate the association between DM and BCa risk. We searched PubMed, Embase, and Web of Science for cohort and case-control studies assessing the association between DM and BCa published before 10 December 2021. Two reviewers independently screened the studies for inclusion, abstracted article data, and rated study quality. Random effects models were used to estimate summary risk ratios (RRs) and 95% confidence intervals (CIs). From 8396 articles identified in the initial search, 70 independent studies were included in the meta-analysis. DM was associated with an overall increased risk of BCa (RR = 1.20, 95% CI: 1.11-1.29). The 24 case-control studies demonstrated a stronger association (RR = 1.26, 95% CI: 1.13-1.40) than the 46 cohort studies (RR = 1.15, 95% CI: 1.05-1.27). Studies reporting risk by menopausal status found that postmenopausal women had an elevated risk of developing BCa (RR = 1.12, 95% CI: 1.07-1.17). No association between DM and BCa risk was observed among premenopausal women (RR = 0.95, 95% CI: 0.85-1.05). In addition, DM was associated with significantly increased risks of oestrogen receptor (ER)+ (RR = 1.09, 95% CI: 1.00-1.20), ER- (RR = 1.16, 95% CI: 1.04-1.30), and triple negative BCa (RR = 1.41, 95% CI: 1.01-1.96). The association estimate for human epidermal growth factor 2-positive BCa was also positive (RR = 1.21, 95% CI: 0.52-2.82), but the CI was wide and crossed the null. Our meta-analysis confirms a modest positive association between DM and BCa risk. In addition, our results suggest that the association between DM and BCa may be modified by menopausal status, and that DM may be differentially associated with BCa subtypes defined by receptor status. Additional studies are warranted to investigate the mechanisms underlying these associations and any influence of DM on BCa receptor expression.

Association between gastrointestinal symptoms and specialty care utilization among colon cancer survivors: a cohort study.

PURPOSE: Persistent gastrointestinal (GI) symptoms are frequently experienced by colon cancer survivors and may help identify patients with higher utilization of healthcare services. To assess the relationship between GI symptoms and specialty care utilization among colon cancer survivors. METHODS: A prospective longitudinal cohort study at an academic medical center of 126 adults surgically treated for stage I-IV colon cancer between February 2017 and June 2022. Participants reported GI symptoms through the EORTC QLQ-C30 and QLQ-CR29 at enrollment and as frequently as every 6 months for 5 years. Main outcome measures were visits, telephone encounters, and secure messages with a medical provider within specialty oncology clinics within 6 months after each survey completion. Generalized linear mixed regression model for repeated measurements with random trajectory for each participant was performed to estimate the associations between symptoms and healthcare use. Models were adjusted for demographics, clinical and surgical factors, and timing in relation to onset of the COVID-19 pandemic. RESULTS: In the 6 months after each survey time point, patients averaged 1.2 visits, 0.5 telephone encounters, and 3.2 patient-initiated messages. In adjusted models, those with any abdominal pain (RR 1.45; p = 0.002), buttock pain (RR 1.30; p = 0.050), or increased stool frequency (RR 1.26; p = 0.046) had more clinic visits in the following 6 months than those without these symptoms. Including these three symptoms in one model revealed that only abdominal pain was statistically significantly associated with increased clinic visits (RR 1.36; p = 0.016). Patients with any blood or mucus in stool (RR 2.46; p = 0.009) had significantly more telephone encounters, and those with any abdominal pain (RR 1.65; p = 0.002) had significantly more patient-initiated messages than those without these symptoms. CONCLUSIONS: Our findings identify GI symptoms associated with increased use of oncologic specialty care among colon cancer survivors, with abdominal pain as an important predictor of utilization. IMPLICATIONS FOR CANCER SURVIVORS: Early identification and anticipatory management of colon cancer survivors experiencing abdominal pain may decrease healthcare utilization.

Dietary fat in relation to all-cause mortality and cancer progression and death among people with metastatic colorectal cancer: Data from CALGB 80405 (Alliance)/SWOG 80405.

Data on diet and survival among people with metastatic colorectal cancer are limited. We examined dietary fat in relation to all-cause mortality and cancer progression or death among 1149 people in the Cancer and Leukemia Group B (Alliance)/Southwest Oncology Group (SWOG) 80405 trial who completed a food frequency questionnaire at initiation of treatment for advanced or metastatic colorectal cancer. We examined saturated, monounsaturated, total and specific types (n-3, long-chain n-3 and n-6) of polyunsaturated fat, animal and vegetable fats. We hypothesized higher vegetable fat intake would be associated with lower risk of all-cause mortality and cancer progression. We used Cox proportional hazards regression to estimate adjusted hazard ratios (HR) and 95% confidence intervals (CI). Over median follow-up of 6.1 years (interquartile range [IQR]: 5.3, 7.2 y), we observed 974 deaths and 1077 events of progression or death. Participants had a median age of 59 y; 41% were female and 86% identified as White. Moderate or higher vegetable fat was associated with lower risk of mortality and cancer progression or death (HRs comparing second, third and fourth to first quartile for all-cause mortality: 0.74 [0.62, 0.90]; 0.75 [0.61, 0.91]; 0.79 [0.63, 1.00]; P trend: .12; for cancer progression or death: 0.74 [0.62, 0.89]; 0.78 [0.64, 0.95]; 0.71 [0.57, 0.88]; P trend: .01). No other fat type was associated with all-cause mortality and cancer progression or death. Moderate or higher vegetable fat intake may be associated with lower risk of cancer progression or death among people with metastatic colorectal cancer.

Diabetes mellitus and risk of breast cancer: a large-scale, prospective, population-based study.

BACKGROUND: The objective of this study was to evaluate associations of diabetes overall, type 1 diabetes (T1D), and type 2 diabetes (T2D) with breast cancer (BCa) risk. METHODS: We included 250,312 women aged 40-69 years between 2006 and 2010 from the UK Biobank cohort. Adjusted hazard ratios (aHRs) and 95% confidence intervals (CIs) were calculated for associations of diabetes and its two major types with the time from enrollment to incident BCa. RESULTS: We identified 8182 BCa cases during a median follow-up of 11.1 years. We found no overall association between diabetes and BCa risk (aHR = 1.02, 95% CI = 0.92-1.14). When accounting for diabetes subtype, women with T1D had a higher risk of BCa than women without diabetes (aHR = 1.52, 95% CI = 1.03-2.23). T2D was not associated with BCa risk overall (aHR = 1.00, 95% CI = 0.90-1.12). However, there was a significantly increased risk of BCa in the short time window after T2D diagnosis. CONCLUSIONS: Though we did not find an association between diabetes and BCa risk overall, an increased risk of BCa was observed shortly after T2D diagnosis. In addition, our data suggest that women with T1D may have an increased risk of BCa.

Post-diagnostic health behaviour scores and risk of prostate cancer progression and mortality.

BACKGROUND: Individual behaviours are associated with prostate cancer (PC) progression. Behavioural scores, comprised of multiple risk factors, allow assessment of the combined impact of multiple behaviours. METHODS: We examined the association between six a priori scores and risk of PC progression and mortality among 2156 men with PC in the Cancer of the Prostate Strategic Urologic Research Endeavor (CaPSURE) cohort: two scores developed based on the PC survivorship literature ('2021 Score [+ Diet]'); a score developed based on pre-diagnostic PC literature ('2015 Score'); and three scores based on US recommendations for cancer prevention ('WCRF/AICR Score') and survival ('ACS Score [+ Alcohol]'). Hazard ratios (HRs) and 95% confidence intervals (CIs) were estimated for progression and PC mortality via parametric survival models (interval censoring) and Cox models, respectively. RESULTS: Over a median (IQR) of 6.4 (1.3, 13.7) years, we observed 192 progression and 73 PC mortality events. Higher (i.e., healthier) 2021 Score + Diet and WCRF/AICR Scores were inversely associated with risk of PC progression (2021 + Diet: HRcontinuous = 0.76, 95% CI: 0.63-0.90. WCRF/AICR: HRcontinuous = 0.83, 95% CI: 0.67-1.02) and mortality (2021 + Diet: HRcontinuous = 0.65, 95% CI: 0.45-0.93. WCRF/AICR: HRcontinuous = 0.71; 95% CI: 0.57-0.89). The ACS Score + Alcohol was only associated with progression (HRcontinuous = 0.89, 95% CI: 0.81-0.98) while the 2021 Score was only associated with PC mortality (HRcontinuous = 0.62, 95% CI: 0.45-0.85). The 2015 was not associated with PC progression or mortality. CONCLUSION: Findings strengthen the evidence that behavioural modifications following a prostate cancer diagnosis may improve clinical outcomes.

Sexual function remains persistently low in women after treatment for colorectal cancer and anal squamous cell carcinoma.

BACKGROUND: Women diagnosed with colorectal cancer (CRC) or anal squamous cell carcinoma (ASCC) are at high risk of sexual dysfunction after treatment, yet little is known about recovery and risk factors for chronic dysfunction. AIM: We aimed to describe sexual function and sexual activity among women who underwent definitive treatment for CRC or ASCC, examine relationships between time since treatment completion and sexual function, and explore factors associated with desire and changes in sexual desire over time. METHODS: As part of a prospective cohort study of patients with gastrointestinal cancer at the University of California San Francisco, female-identifying participants who finished definitive treatment for CRC or ASCC completed the Female Sexual Function Index (FSFI) at 6- to 12-month intervals. We used multivariable linear mixed models to explore factors associated with the FSFI desire subscale. OUTCOMES: Outcomes were rates of sexual activity, proportion at risk for sexual dysfunction (FSFI score <26.55), total FSFI score, and FSFI desire subscale. RESULTS: Among the 97 cancer survivors who completed at least 1 FSFI, the median age was 59 years, the median time since treatment end was 14 months, and 87% were menopausal. Fifty-five women (57%) had a history of colon cancer; 21 (22%), rectal cancer; and 21 (22%), ASCC. An additional 13 (13%) had a current ostomy. Approximately half the women were sexually active (n = 48, 49%). Among these 48 sexually active women, 34 (71%) had FSFI scores indicating risk for sexual dysfunction. Among the 10 sexually active women who completed a FSFI ≥2 years since end of treatment, the median total score was 22.6 (IQR, 15.6-27.3). None of the evaluated characteristics were associated with desire (age, tumor site, treatment, menopause status, or ostomy status). CLINICAL IMPLICATIONS: Consistent with prior studies, we found low desire scores after treatment for CRC or ASCC, with little recovery over time, suggesting that patients should not expect an eventual rebound of sexual function. STRENGTHS AND LIMITATIONS: Strengths of our study include longitudinal data and use of the validated FSFI. Women with ASCC composed 22% of our cohort, allowing for insight into this rare disease group. Limitations of this study include the small sample size, particularly for longitudinal analyses, and the enrollment of patients at variable times since treatment end. CONCLUSION: We observed a high prevalence of sexual health concerns, including low desire, after the treatment of CRC and ASCC that persisted for years after treatment was completed.

Barriers and confidence among colorectal and prostate cancer survivors participating in two behavioral intervention studies.

PURPOSE: Exercise and healthy diet are key components of cancer survivorship. We sought to explore perceived barriers to engaging in healthy diet and exercise, and whether these barriers change throughout remote-based behavioral interventions. METHODS: Smart Pace (SP) and Prostate 8 (P8) were two 12-week pilot randomized controlled trials (RCTs) among 42 colorectal cancer (CRC) survivors and 76 prostate cancer (PC) survivors, respectively, that encouraged participants to implement exercise (both) and healthy diet (P8 only) through text messaging and wearable fitness monitors; P8 also included web materials. Participants completed surveys on perceived barriers and confidence in their ability to implement healthy behaviors at enrollment and 12 weeks; P8 also included a 52-week assessment. RESULTS: At enrollment, CRC survivors commonly reported a lack of discipline/willpower (36%), time (33%), and energy (31%); PC survivors often reported a lack of knowledge about healthy dietary behaviors (26%). Not having anyone with whom to exercise with was a common barrier among both groups (21% in CRC, 20% in PC). Among the intervention groups in both studies, various enrollment barriers (overall, functional/psychological disability, aversiveness, excuses, and inconveniences) were associated with change in behavior over time. CONCLUSIONS: Among CRC and PC survivors, there are multiple potential barriers related to motivation, time, social support, and lack of knowledge, that can be addressed and overcome to improve healthy behaviors. Tailoring lifestyle interventions to participants' individual barriers and confidence is needed to promote and sustain behavior change long-term.

Quality of life among colorectal cancer survivors participating in a pilot randomized controlled trial of a web-based dietary intervention with text messages.

PURPOSE: We aimed to estimate the effect of a 12-week web-based dietary intervention with text messages on quality of life (QoL) among colorectal cancer (CRC) survivors. METHODS: Between 2017 and 2018, 50 CRC survivors were randomized (1:1) to receive a 12-week web-based dietary intervention with daily text messages or wait-list control. Health-related QoL was assessed using the European Organization for the Research and Treatment of Cancer (EORTC) Quality of Life Questionnaire-Core 30 (QLQ-C30) and colorectal quality of life module (QLQ-CR29) at baseline, 12, and 24 weeks. Within- and between-group mean changes in health-related QoL with 95% confidence intervals (CI) were calculated for both arms. RESULTS: Compared to the controls, participants receiving the intervention had an improvement in emotional functioning (mean change: 14.3; 95% CI: 3.0, 25.6) at 12 weeks and social functioning (mean change: 13.8; 95% CI: 2.1, 25.5) at 24 weeks. A decrease of fatigue from baseline was also observed in the intervention arm (mean change: - 9.1; 95% CI: - 17.1, - 1.1) at 24 weeks. No other changes in QoL scores were associated with the intervention. CONCLUSION: CRC survivors randomized to receive a web-based dietary intervention with text messages experienced higher emotional and social functioning. Further study with a larger population may be warranted. TRIAL REGISTRATION: clinicaltrials.gov, NCT02965521. Registered 16 November 2016, https://clinicaltrials.gov/ct2/keydates/NCT02965521.

Post-diagnostic health behaviour scores in relation to fatal prostate cancer.

BACKGROUND: Individual health behaviours have been associated with fatal prostate cancer (PCa). Their combined association with fatal PCa after diagnosis is unknown. METHODS: This prospective cohort included 4518 men diagnosed with nonmetastatic PCa from the Health Professionals Follow-up Study. Exposures included a three-factor score integrating post-diagnostic fatal PCa risk factors ("2021 PCa Behaviour Score"), six-factor score integrating incident aggressive PCa risk factors ("2015 PCa Behaviour Score"), and two scores integrating recommendations for cancer prevention and survival, respectively. Multivariable Cox models estimated hazard ratios (HRs) and 95% confidence intervals (CIs) for fatal PCa. RESULTS: Over a median 10.2 years, we observed 219 PCa deaths. Each additional point of one of the PCa-specific health behaviour scores (2015 PCa Behaviour Score) was associated with a 19% reduced fatal PCa risk (HR: 0.81, 95%CI: 0.68-0.97). The 2021 PCa Behaviour Score and scores integrating national recommendations were not associated with fatal PCa. CONCLUSIONS: While a PCa-specific health behaviour score was associated with a reduced risk of fatal PCa, we did not otherwise observe strong evidence of associations between post-diagnostic scores and fatal PCa. Avoiding tobacco, healthy body size, and physical activity may decrease PCa death risk, but further research is needed to inform cancer survivorship recommendations.

Quality of life of colorectal cancer survivors participating in a pilot randomized controlled trial of physical activity trackers and daily text messages.

PURPOSE: There are over 1.3 million colorectal cancer (CRC) survivors in the USA, many of whom report lower health-related quality of life (HRQoL) years after treatment. This study aimed to explore the effect of digital health tools on HRQoL in CRC survivors. METHODS: We conducted a two-arm, randomized controlled trial of 42 subjects who had completed treatment for CRC. Participants in the intervention arm received a Fitbit Flex™ and daily text messages for 12 weeks. HRQoL was assessed as a secondary endpoint in both arms at enrollment and 12 weeks using the Medical Outcomes Study Short Form Survey (SF-36) and the Functional Assessment of Cancer Therapy-Colorectal (FACT-C). Survey score changes from enrollment to 12 weeks were compared between the two arms using independent t tests, and scores at enrollment and 12 weeks were compared using paired t tests. RESULTS: An increase in the FACT-C functional well-being subscale was observed in individuals in the intervention arm pre- to post-intervention (median difference, 2; interquartile range (IQR), 1, 4; P = .02). Although the between-group comparison was not statistically significant, no change in the functional well-being subscale was observed in the control arm (median difference, 0; IQR, 1, 1; P = .71). No other measures of HRQoL appeared to differ within arm across time points or between arms. CONCLUSION: A 12-week digital physical activity intervention may improve functional well-being among CRC survivors. Larger randomized studies are needed to determine if digital health tools improve functional well-being among CRC survivors and if this improvement can be sustained over time. TRIAL REGISTRATION: NCT02966054; registration date, November 17, 2016.

Loneliness and symptom burden in oncology patients during the COVID-19 pandemic.

BACKGROUND: Loneliness and social isolation are significant public health problems that are being exacerbated during the coronavirus disease 2019 pandemic. Little is known about the associations between loneliness and symptom burden in oncology patients before and during the pandemic. Study purposes include determining the prevalence of loneliness in a sample of oncology patients; evaluating for differences in demographic, clinical, and symptom characteristics between lonely and nonlonely patients; and determining which demographic, clinical, and symptom characteristics were associated with membership in the lonely group. METHODS: A convenience sample (n = 606) completed online surveys that evaluated the severity of loneliness, social isolation, and common symptoms (ie, anxiety, depression, fatigue, sleep disturbance, cognitive dysfunction, and pain) in oncology patients. Parametric and nonparametric tests were used to evaluate for differences in scores between the lonely and nonlonely groups. Logistic regression analysis was used to determine risk factors for membership in the loneliness group. RESULTS: Of the 606 patients, 53.0% were categorized in the lonely group. The lonely group reported higher levels of social isolation, as well as higher symptom severity scores for all of the symptoms evaluated. In the multivariate model, being unmarried, having higher levels of social isolation, as well as higher levels of anxiety and depressive symptoms were associated with membership in the lonely group. CONCLUSIONS: Study findings suggest that a significant number of oncology patients are experiencing loneliness, most likely as a result of mandate social distancing and isolation procedures. The symptom burden of these patients is extremely high and warrants clinical evaluation and interventions.

Post-diagnostic coffee and tea consumption and risk of prostate cancer progression by smoking history.

PURPOSE: Post-diagnostic coffee and tea consumption and prostate cancer progression is understudied. METHODS: We examined 1,557 men from the Cancer of the Prostate Strategic Urologic Research Endeavor who completed a food frequency questionnaire a median of 28 months post-diagnosis. We estimated associations between post-diagnostic coffee (total, caffeinated, decaffeinated) and tea (total, non-herbal, herbal) and risk of prostate cancer progression (recurrence, secondary treatment, bone metastases, or prostate cancer death) using Cox proportional hazards regression. We also examined whether smoking (current, former, never) modified these associations. RESULTS: We observed 167 progression events (median follow-up 9 years). Higher coffee intake was associated with higher risk of progression among current smokers (n = 95). The hazard ratio (HR) [95% confidence interval (CI)] for 5 vs 0 cups/day of coffee was 0.5 (CI 0.2, 1.7) among never smokers, but 4.5 (CI 1.1, 19.4) among current smokers (p-interaction: 0.001). There was no association between total coffee intake and prostate cancer progression among never and former smokers. However, we observed an inverse association between decaffeinated coffee (cups/days) and risk of prostate cancer progression in these men (HR > 0 to < 1 vs 0: 1.1 (CI 0.7, 1.8); HR1 to <2 vs 0: 0.7 (CI 0.3, 1.4); HR≥2 vs 0: 0.6 (CI 0.3, 1.1); p-trend = 0.03). There was no association between tea and prostate cancer progression, overall or by smoking status. CONCLUSION: Among non-smoking men diagnosed with localized prostate cancer, moderate coffee and tea consumption was not associated with risk of cancer progression. However, post-diagnostic coffee intake was associated with increased risk of progression among current smokers.

Post-Diagnostic Dietary and Lifestyle Factors and Prostate Cancer Recurrence, Progression, and Mortality.

PURPOSE OF REVIEW: This study aimed to summarize evidence published between 1999 and June 2020 examining diet and lifestyle after prostate cancer (PC) diagnosis in relation to risk of biochemical recurrence, PC progression, and PC-specific mortality. RECENT FINDINGS: Secondary prevention is an important research area in cancer survivorship. A growing number of studies have reported associations between post-diagnostic modifiable behaviors and risk of PC outcomes. Evidence on modifiable lifestyle factors and PC remains limited. Where multiple studies exist, findings are often mixed. However, studies consistently suggest that smoking and consumption of whole milk/high-fat dairy are associated with higher risk of PC recurrence and mortality. In addition, physical activity and ½ to 1 glass of red wine/day have been associated with lower risk of recurrence and PC-specific mortality. Greater inclusion of racially/ethnically diverse groups in future research is necessary to understand these relationships in populations most impacted by adverse PC outcomes.

Oncology patients' perceptions of and experiences with COVID-19.

PURPOSE: No information is available on cancer patients' knowledge of and experiences with COVID-19. We undertook an evaluation of differences in COVID-19 symptom occurrence rates, COVID-19 testing rates, clinical care activities, knowledge of COVID-19, and use of mitigation procedures between patients who were and were not receiving active cancer treatment. METHODS: Patients enrolled were > 18 years of age; had a diagnosis of cancer; and were able to complete the emailed study survey online. RESULTS: Of the 174 patients who participated, 27.6% (n = 48) were receiving active treatment, 13.6% were unemployed because of COVID-19, 12.2% had been tested for COVID-19, and 0.6% had been hospitalized for COVID-19. Patients who were not on active treatment reported a higher mean number of COVID-19 symptoms (3.1 (± 4.2) versus 1.9 (± 2.6)), and patients who reported a higher number of COVID-19 symptoms were more likely to be tested. Over 55% of the patients were confident that their primary care provider could diagnose COVID-19, and the majority of the patients had high levels of adherence with the use of precautionary measures (e.g., social distancing, use of face coverings). CONCLUSION: The high level of COVID-19 symptoms and the significant overlap of COVID-19 and cancer-related symptoms pose challenges for clinicians who are assessing and triaging oncology patients for COVID-19 testing. For patients on active treatment, clinicians face challenges with how to assess and manage symptoms that, prior to COVID-19, would be ascribed to acute toxicities associated with cancer treatments or persistent symptoms in cancer survivors.

Feasibility and Acceptability of a Remotely Delivered, Web-Based Behavioral Intervention for Men With Prostate Cancer: Four-Arm Randomized Controlled Pilot Trial.

BACKGROUND: Diet and exercise may be associated with quality of life and survival in men with prostate cancer. OBJECTIVE: This study aimed to determine the feasibility and acceptability of a remotely delivered web-based behavioral intervention among men with prostate cancer. METHODS: We conducted a multi-site 4-arm pilot randomized controlled trial of a 3-month intervention (TrueNTH Community of Wellness). Eligibility included self-reported prostate cancer diagnosis, having a personal device that connected to the internet, age ≥18 years, and ability to read English and receive text messages and emails. Men receiving chemotherapy or radiation, or those who reported contraindications to exercise, could participate with physician clearance. Participants were randomized (1:1:1:1) to additive intervention levels: website; website and personalized diet and exercise prescription; website, personalized prescription, Fitbit, and text messages; and website, personalized prescription, Fitbit, text messages, and 2 30-minute phone calls-one with an exercise trainer and one with a registered dietician. Primary outcomes were feasibility (accrual and attrition) and acceptability (survey data and website use). We described self-reported diet and exercise behavior at the time of enrollment, 3 months, and 6 months as secondary outcomes. RESULTS: In total, 202 men consented and were randomized between August 2017 and September 2018 (level 1: 49, level 2: 51, level 3: 50, level 4: 52). A total of 160 men completed the onboarding process and were exposed to their randomly assigned intervention (38, 38, 42, and 42 in levels 1, 2, 3, and 4, respectively). The follow-up rate was 82.7% (167/202) at 3 months and 77.2% (156/202) at 6 months. Participants had a median age of 70 years and were primarily White and college educated. Website visit frequency over the 3-month intervention period increased across levels (median: 2, 9, 11, and 16 visits for levels 1, 2, 3, and 4, respectively). Most were satisfied or very satisfied with the intervention (20/39, 51%; 27/42, 64%; 23/44, 52%; and 27/42, 64% for levels 1, 2, 3, and 4, respectively). The percentage of men who reported being very satisfied was highest among level 4 participants (10/42, 24% vs 4/39, 10%; 5/42, 12%; and 5/44, 11% for levels 1, 2, and 3, respectively). Dissatisfaction was highest in level 1 (5/39, 13% vs 1/42, 2%; 3/44, 7%; and 2/42, 5% for levels 2, 3, and 4, respectively). We observed small improvements in diet and physical activity at 3 months among men in level 4 versus those in level 1. CONCLUSIONS: A web-based, remotely delivered, tailored behavioral intervention for men with prostate cancer is feasible. Future studies are warranted to increase the effect of the intervention on patient behavior while maintaining sustainability and scalability as well as to design and implement interventions for more diverse populations. TRIAL REGISTRATION: ClinicalTrials.gov NCT03406013; http://clinicaltrials.gov/ct2/show/NCT03406013.

Marine omega-3 fatty acid intake and survival of stage III colon cancer according to tumor molecular markers in NCCTG Phase III trial N0147 (Alliance).

Marine omega-3 polyunsaturated fatty acids (MO3PUFAs) have anticancer properties and may improve colon cancer survival. However, it remains unknown whether the benefit differs by tumor molecular subtype. We examined data from a phase III randomized trial of FOLFOX or FOLFOX + cetuximab among 1,735 stage III colon cancer patients who completed a dietary questionnaire at enrollment. Multivariable hazard ratios and 95% confidence intervals (CIs) were calculated for the association between MO3PUFA and disease-free survival (DFS) and overall survival according to KRAS and BRAFV600E mutations and DNA mismatch repair (MMR) status. Higher MO3PUFA intake was associated with improved 3-year DFS for KRAS wild-type tumors (77% vs. 73%; HR: 0.84; 95% CI: 0.67-1.05) but not KRAS-mutant tumors (64% vs. 70%; HR: 1.30; 95% CI: 0.97-1.73; Pinteraction = 0.02). Similar heterogeneity was found by MMR (Pinteraction = 0.14): higher MO3PUFA was associated with better 3-year DFS for tumors with deficient MMR (72% vs. 67%) but not proficient MMR (72% vs. 72%). No heterogeneity was found by BRAFV600E mutation. Similar findings were obtained for overall survival. In conclusion, we found a suggestive beneficial association between higher MO3PUFA intake and improved survival among stage III colon cancer patients with wild-type KRAS and deficient MMR. Given the relatively small number of cases with tumor molecular assessments, further studies, preferably through pooled analyses of multiples cohorts, are needed to validate our findings.

Trends in Complementary and Alternative Medicine Use among Patients with Prostate Cancer.

PURPOSE: We explored the prevalence and trends of self-reported complementary and alternative medicine use among patients with prostate cancer using CaPSURE™ (Cancer of the Prostate Strategic Urologic Research Endeavor). MATERIALS AND METHODS: A total of 7,989 CaPSURE participants completed questionnaires between 1996 and 2016 on the use of nearly 70 complementary and alternative medicine types. Participants were defined as users if they indicated that they had ever used complementary and alternative medicines. To evaluate trends among 7,696 patients with newly diagnosed prostate cancer we considered complementary and alternative medicine use within 24 months of diagnosis and calculated the percent change in complementary and alternative medicine use between groups defined by the year of diagnosis. RESULTS: Of patients with prostate cancer 56% reported complementary and alternative medicine use on at least 1 questionnaire. Multivitamin and omega-3 fatty acid use was common at 40% and 24% of patients, respectively. Compared to nonusers greater proportions of complementary and alternative medicine users were college educated, had a higher household income and lived in the West and Midwest. Median prostate specific antigen at diagnosis was 5.8 (IQR 4.4-8.4) and 6.2 ng/ml (IQR 4.7-10.1) among users and nonusers, respectively (p <0.01). Between those diagnosed in 1996 to 2000 and 2011 to 2016, complementary and alternative medicine use increased 128% from 24% to 54%. When comparing participants diagnosed in 2006 to 2010 with those diagnosed in 2011 to 2016, a 108% increase was seen in supplemental vitamin D use and a -48% decrease was seen in supplemental vitamin E use. CONCLUSIONS: Many patients with prostate cancer reported complementary and alternative medicine use. Multivitamins and omega-3 fatty acids were commonly ingested and vitamin D use increased dramatically from 2006 to 2010 compared to 2011 to 2016. These data can guide clinical discussions and decision making such as nutritionist referral and help prioritize future research.

Self-monitoring and reminder text messages to increase physical activity in colorectal cancer survivors (Smart Pace): a pilot randomized controlled trial.

BACKGROUND: Over 1.3 million people live with colorectal cancer in the United States. Physical activity is associated with lower risk of colorectal cancer recurrence and mortality. Interventions are needed to increase physical activity in colorectal cancer survivors. METHODS: We conducted a 2-arm non-blinded pilot randomized controlled trial at the University of California, San Francisco among 42 individuals who had completed curative-intent treatment for colorectal cancer to determine the feasibility and acceptability of a 12-week (84 days) physical activity intervention using a Fitbit Flex™ and daily text messages. Participants were randomized 1:1 to receive the intervention with print educational materials or print educational materials alone. We explored the impact of the intervention versus usual care on physical activity using ActiGraph GT3X+ accelerometers pre-/post-intervention. RESULTS: We screened 406 individuals and randomized 42 to intervention (n = 21) or control (n = 21) groups. During the 12-week study, the intervention arm wore their Fitbits a median of 74 days [88% of days in study period, interquartile range: 23-83 days] and responded to a median of 34 (out of 46) text messages that asked for a reply (interquartile range: 13-38 text messages). Among the 16 intervention participants who completed the feedback survey, the majority (88%) reported that the intervention motivated them to exercise and that they were satisfied with their experience. No statistically significant difference in change in moderate-to-vigorous physical activity was found from baseline to 12 weeks between arms. CONCLUSION: A 12-week physical activity intervention with a Fitbit and text messages was feasible and acceptable among colorectal cancer patients after curative treatment. Larger studies are needed to determine whether the intervention increases physical activity. TRIAL REGISTRATION: Clinicaltrials.gov Identifier NCT02966054 . Registered 17 November 2016, retrospectively registered.