Abstract B159: Could cultural adaptation of nutrition education improve survivorship outcomes among African American/black women with reproductive cancers?

Abstract

Abstract Background/Significance: Cancer epidemiological data suggest African American/Black women experience the lowest relative survival rate for reproductive cancers compared to other racial/ethnic groups, despite these cancers being most prevalent among White women. Findings from recent studies suggest contributors to these adverse outcomes include socio-cultural and lifestyle factors, including diet, physical activity, and smoking. As an intervention strategy, it has been recommended dietary changes may enhance overall health and survival among AA/B women with reproductive cancers. However, inequalities in access to nutritious foods and culturally and linguistically appropriate nutrition information may serve as an impediment to making healthy food choices. Methods: An environmental scan was conducted by reviewing peer reviewed literature and online nutrition information sources to identify available, easily accessible, culturally adapted nutrition education for AA/B reproductive cancer survivors. Focus groups with breast and endometrial cancer survivors will ensure to inform the development of culturally targeted nutritional programs for cancer survivors. Results: Our literature review reveals a growing body of evidence indicating the potential benefits of culturally adapted dietary modifications post-diagnosis for African American/Black women with reproductive cancers, suggesting improved outcomes. Notably, the review underscores the critical role of culturally relevant nutrition information, disseminated by culturally affiliated individuals, with technology playing a pivotal role in accessibility facilitation. This research study aims to clarify the barriers and facilitators encountered by African American/Black women in accessing culturally and linguistically appropriate information, thereby enhancing understanding of factors influencing cancer survivorship outcomes. Conclusion and Implications/Discussion: Seeking to improve the survivorship of reproductive cancers in AA/B women through enhanced dietary patterns, this study merges insights from a systematic literature review and an environmental scan. Offering a comprehensive understanding of available nutritional information for AA/B women. Recognizing both strengths and gaps in existing resources, our research serves as a foundation for developing or adapting culturally specific nutritional programs to improve survivorship outcomes for reproductive cancers. Anticipating that our findings will contribute to understanding barriers and facilitators in accessing culturally and linguistically appropriate information, we aim to enhance cancer survivorship outcomes for AA/B women. Acknowledgement of Funding: The project described was supported by Award Number CHERC-MSI-21-166-01-CHERC-MSI. from the American Cancer Society (ACS). The content is solely the responsibility of the authors and does not necessarily represent the official views of the ACS. Citation Format: Desiree Rivers, Zakirah L Abdul-Hameed. Could cultural adaptation of nutrition education improve survivorship outcomes among African American/black women with reproductive cancers? [abstract]. In: Proceedings of the 17th AACR Conference on the Science of Cancer Health Disparities in Racial/Ethnic Minorities and the Medically Underserved; 2024 Sep 21-24; Los Angeles, CA. Philadelphia (PA): AACR; Cancer Epidemiol Biomarkers Prev 2024;33(9 Suppl):Abstract nr B159.