Get Healthy after Breast Cancer

STUDY PURPOSE

This pilot study assessed the feasibility and acceptability of referral to the ‘Get Healthy Service’ (GHS) among women who had recently completed treatment for breast cancer during follow-up visits to a breast cancer treatment clinic. The GHS is a free, state-funded telephone coaching program targeting weight loss, healthy eating, and physical activity. It is available, based on self-referral or healthcare provider referral, following screening, to any Australian adult (www.gethealthynsw.com.au). The study purpose was to inform whether the GHS (without any cancer-specific adaptations) is a suitable program for lifestyle support among breast cancer survivors, and whether such referrals were acceptable within the breast cancer treatment setting.

For further information and study findings - CLICK HERE   

SIGNIFICANCE

Importantly, this study highlights that an Australian state-funded telephone-delivered lifestyle program, the “Get Healthy Service” is suitable and effective for breast cancer survivors, without any cancer-specific adaptations. With growing numbers of cancer survivors, finding effective, broad-reach programs is imperative.  Additionally, this study was able to recruit a relatively diverse group of breast cancer survivors.

Research to understand the best ways to support cancer survivors with lifestyle changes is ongoing in our centre. Currently, we have a grant under review to continue this work in other underserved populations.