Dietary Advice Interventions Research Articles

A qualitative study evaluating experiences of a lifestyle intervention in men with prostate cancer undergoing androgen suppression therapy

BackgroundThe severe iatrogenic hypogonadal state induced by medical castration used for treatment of prostate cancer is associated with adverse effects including fatigue, increased fracture risk, and a decrease in skeletal muscle function, which negatively impact quality of life. We have previously reported beneficial changes in healthy lifestyle behaviors, physical function and fatigue as a result of a novel combined exercise and dietary advice intervention (a lifestyle intervention) in men with prostate cancer on androgen suppression therapy (AST). The aim of this research was to conduct a qualitative evaluation of the lifestyle intervention in these men with advanced prostate cancer receiving androgen suppression therapy (AST).MethodsTwelve men with prostate cancer on AST took part in three focus groups in a UK higher education institution following the 12 week intervention. Sessions lasted between 45 and 60 minutes in duration. All discussions were audio-taped and transcribed. A framework analysis approach was applied to the focus group data. An initial coding framework was developed from a priori issues listed in the topic guide and extended and refined following initial familiarization with the focus group transcripts. Line by line indexing of the transcripts was undertaken iteratively to allow for the incorporation of new codes. Coded sections of text were grouped together (charted) into themes and subthemes prior to a further process of comparison and interpretation.ResultsNone of the participants involved in the trial were provided with information on how lifestyle changes might be beneficial to men with prostate cancer during the course of their standard medical treatment. We present novel findings that this intervention was considered beneficial for reducing anxiety around treatment and fear of disease progression. Men were supportive of the benefits of the intervention over conventional cancer survival discussion group arrangements as it facilitated peer support in addition to physical rehabilitation.ConclusionsThe benefits of lifestyle changes in men with prostate cancer are not well appreciated by care providers despite a range of benefits becoming apparent. Strategies to implement exercise and dietary interventions in standard care should be further evaluated.Trial registrationCurrent Controlled Trials ISRCTN88605738

Psychological and sociodemographic predictors of premature discontinuation of a 1-year multimodal outpatient weight-reduction program: an attrition analysis

ObjectiveAttrition rates of up to 77% have been reported in conservative weight-reduction programs for the treatment of obesity. In view of the cost of such programs to the health system, there is a need to identify the variables that predict premature discontinuation of treatment. Previous studies have focused mainly on somatic and sociodemographic parameters. The prospective influence of psychological factors has not been systematically investigated to date.MethodsA total of 164 patients (138 of whom were women) with a mean age of 45 years and a mean body mass index of 39.57 participated in a 1-year outpatient weight-reduction program at the Charité – Universitätsmedizin Berlin University Hospital. The program included movement therapy, dietary advice, psychoeducational and behavioral interventions, relaxation procedures, and consultations with a specialist in internal medicine and a psychologist. Patients also underwent regular laboratory and psychological testing. The results were evaluated using a t-test, χ2-test, and logistic regression analysis.ResultsSeventy-one of the 164 patients (61 women, mean age = 43 years, mean body mass index = 39.53) withdrew before the end of the program (attrition rate = 43.3%). While there were no differences between the somatic and metabolic characteristics of those who withdrew and those who remained, the sociodemographic and psychological factors had some relevance. In particular, “expectation of self-efficacy” (Fragebogen zu Selbstwirksamkeit, Optimismus und Pessimismus [SWOP]), “not working,” “tiredness” (Berliner Stimmungsfragebogen [BSF]), “pessimism” (SWOP) and “positive reframing” (Brief-COPE) were found to play a role in whether participants subsequently dropped out of the treatment. “Support coping” (Brief-COPE) and “older age” prior to the start of treatment were identified as variables that promoted treatment adherence.ConclusionThe results are discussed in light of previous findings and with regard to whether the modules of the weight-reduction program should be adapted.

The Use of Transactional Analysis in the Treatment of Eating Disorders

Since 1859, when Marce described a “hypochondriacal delirium” characterized by food refusal, eating disorders have been recognized as having a psychological component (Silverman, 1997). This article examines the psychological factors inherent in anorexia nervosa and bulimia nervosa using a transactional analysis developmental perspective. The interaction between psychological and physiological factors that maintain an eating disorder is discussed, and a psychotherapeutic approach that includes the consideration of dietary advice, weight monitoring, and medical intervention is offered. With reference to case material, the author argues that ensuring adequate nutrition is compatible with the role of a transactional analysis psychotherapist.