An exploration of needs and preferences for dietary support in colorectal cancer survivors: A mixed-methods study

• DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0189178
• Publication Date: 2017-12-18T18:25:15Z
• Authors: Meeke Hoedjes; Anja de Kruif; Floortje Mols; Martijn Bours; Sandra Beijer; Renate Winkels; Marjan J. Westerman; Jaap C. Seidell; Ellen Kampman
• Keywords: Thematic Analysis; Family Support; Cross-sectional study

To describe the proportion of colorectal cancer (CRC) survivors who perceive a need for dietary support; to examine which socio-demographic, cancer-related, and health-related characteristics are associated with this need; explore reasons (not) needing CRC survivors' specific needs preferences regard lifestyle (i.e., dietary, exercise, and/or weight management) support.This mixed-methods study comprised cross-sectional survey among 1774 Dutch three focus groups (n = 16). associations, logistic regression analyses were conducted. Focus audio-taped, transcribed verbatim, analyzed using thematic approach.Of 1458 respondents (82%), 1198 (67.5%) included analyses. 17.5% reported support. Characteristics were: being younger, living without partner, having stoma, diabetes, overweight or obese. The main reason support was unable initiate maintain changes preferred receiving information soon after diagnosis make an autonomous, informed decision on improving their lifestyle. They receive individually-tailored in autonomy-supportive environment, preferably involvement family fellow-sufferers.This has provided knowledge appropriate improve health outcomes by promoting adherence body recommendations. Findings can be used better identify support, tailor order promote uptake, adherence, effectiveness.