Efficacy and adherence to a lifestyle modification program in sedentary prostate cancer survivors

This study evaluated the efficacy of a program for home-based, sustainable, lifestyle changes in older sedentary prostate cancer (PCa) survivors. Main findings: participants demonstrated and maintained healthy dietary behaviors, physical activity and functional ability.

Older PCa survivors are at risk of developing secondary cancers, heart diseases and declining self-care capacity. Previous studies have reported that exercise and diet can reduce the risks associated with cancer and aging and can improve health outcomes. The main challenge in this age-group was to overcome old behaviors by changing learned sedentary lifestyle into more healthful habits and to sustain them overtime. 

The Reach Out to Enhance Wellness (RENEW) trial investigated the possibility of long-term adherence to healthy lifestyle habits among 641 sedentary cancer survivors aged 65 and above with body mass index of 25 to 40 kg/m² (overweight to obese). The patients were randomly assigned to either immediate participation in the lifestyle intervention program (delivered via telephone counseling and print materials designed to improve dietary quality and increase physical activity) or a delayed participation after a 1-year control period. After the intervention, there was a 95% improvement in dietary quality and physical activity; a 95% decrease in body weight, and an overall improvement in quality of life.

In summary, a multi-faceted diet and exercise program that addresses common age-related issues can significantly improve quality of life and maintain healthful behaviors in older adult cancer survivors.

The study was limited by the small percentage of eligible individuals who consented to participate in the study and the 25% drop-out rate at 2 years. Another limitation of this trial was that the categories to be evaluated were self-reported.

Exercise and a healthy diet have long been held essential to the prevention of and long-term recovery from disease. With your physician's go-signal, you may start a healthy routine with or without professional guidance, depending on your health status. The challenge is not in starting a healthy routine but in keeping it over time.