Article

Wellness Coaching: An Intervention to Increase Healthy Behavior in Breast Cancer Survivors

Daniela L. Stan

Susanne Cutshall

Tammy F. Adams

Karthik Ghosh

Matthew M. Clark

Kaisa C. Wieneke

Esayas B. Kebede

Bonnie J. Donelan Dunlap

Kathryn Ruddy

Jennifer K. Hazelton

Alissa M. Butts

Sarah M. Jenkins

Ivana T. Croghan

Brent A. Bauer

breast cancer, life and wellness coaching, obesity, physical activity, survivorship
CJON 2020, 24(3), 305-315. DOI: 10.1188/20.CJON.305-315

Background: Regular physical activity after breast cancer diagnosis improves survival rates and quality of life (QOL). However, breast cancer survivors rarely meet guidelines for recommended levels of physical activity. Wellness coaching interventions (WCIs) have improved exercise and health behaviors in other patient populations.

Objectives: This study assessed the feasibility and effectiveness of WCIs for increasing physical activity in breast cancer survivors; secondary measures included changes in dietary habits, weight, and QOL.

Methods: 20 obese or overweight breast cancer survivors who recently completed active breast cancer treatment were recruited into a single-arm, 12-week WCI pilot feasibility study. The intervention was comprised of one in-person wellness coaching visit followed by four telephone calls over 12 weeks and 12 weekly emails containing wellness recommendations.

Findings: Significant improvements from pre- to postintervention were seen in physical activity level, dietary habits, and in some aspects of QOL. Forty percent of participants achieved the 3% postintervention weight-loss goal, but this was not sustained at 30 weeks.

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