Diet and physical activity behaviors: how are they related to illness perceptions, coping, and health-related quality of life in young people with hereditary cancer syndromes?

• DOI: 10.1007/s10865-024-00489-z
• Publication Date: 2024-04-21T02:38:00Z
• Authors: Camella J. Rising; Chloe O. Huelsnitz; Rowan Forbes Shep...; William M. P. Klein; Alix G. Sleight; Catherine Wilsnack; Patrick Boyd; Alexandra E. Feldman; Payal P. Khincha; Allison Werner-Lin
• Keywords: Health psychology

Abstract Individuals with inherited cancer syndromes, such as Li-Fraumeni syndrome (LFS), may be motivated to adopt health-protective behaviors, eating more fruits and vegetables increasing physical activity. Examining these health behaviors among young people high lifetime genetic risk provide important insights guide future behavioral interventions that aim improve health-related quality of life (HRQOL). We used a self-regulatory framework investigate relationships diet activity psychosocial constructs (e.g., illness perceptions, coping, HRQOL) in adolescents adults (AYAs; aged 15–39 years) LFS. This longitudinal mixed-methods study included 57 AYAs 16–39 years at enrollment), 32 (56%) whom had history one or cancers. Participants completed two telephone interviews and/or an online survey. thematically analyzed interview data conducted regression analyses evaluate variables. described adopting healthy assert some control over protect HRQOL. More frequent use active coping strategies was associated greater reported daily fruit vegetable intake. Greater better psychological health. Healthy function LFS confer mental benefits. Clinicians might emphasize potential benefits support multiple domains Future research could findings develop tailored risk.