Description

The prospective and randomised trials summarised in this
review have demonstrated that a positive lifestyle change
after a diagnosis of cancer can influence the rate of cancer
progression, improve quality of life, reduce side effects and
risks of therapy, reduce the incidence of relapse and improve
overall survival. Published evidence has also shown that
patients are eager to be involved in their own clinical
management and lifestyle decisions, and by doing so improve
their psychological well-being and sense of autonomy.

Encouraging a fundamental lifestyle change following
the insult of a diagnosis of cancer is, however, a considerable
challenge. Patients may be physically disabled from the cancer
itself or the treatment side effects, have their daily routine
disrupted by regular visits to hospital, have their self esteem
damaged by a change in body image or even psychologically
traumatised by the whole experience. A further dilemma for
patients is that with the myriad of conflicting advice from
well-wishers, alternative medicine practitioners, the internet
and medical staff themselves, patients remain confused and
de-motivated. The evidence reviewed in this paper suggests
that providing lifestyle advice within a structured, evidencebased
oncology environment would be worthwhile, but further
patient oriented research is required to establish; the level of
acceptability to patients, what level of lifestyle change would
be appropriate, how best to offer this advice and whether a
formal lifestyle clinic is economically feasible.