ASPO Abstracts
Implementing an Adapted and Evidence Based Weight Loss Intervention for Latina Cancer Survivors during the COVID-19 Pandemic
Category: Cancer Health Disparities
Conference Year: 2022
Abstract Body:
Purpose: Latina cancer survivors are more likely than non-Hispanic white survivors to have overweight/obesity. Weight status contributes to racial/ethnic disparities in recurrence risk, quality of life, and comorbidities. The efficacious Moving Forward weight loss intervention developed with/for African American breast cancer survivors was adapted for Latina Breast and Gynecological Cancer Survivors (LBGCS). We conducted a randomized pilot to assess feasibility and potential efficacy. We also explored COVID-19 impact on participation. Methods: BGCS self-identified as Latina/Hispanic, BMI of >25 kg/m2, diagnosed with stage 0-III breast or gynecologic cancer, and 3+ months post treatment were recruited. We collected data pre- and post-intervention on weight, diet, physical activity, strength, QOL, program satisfaction and COVID-19 impact on program experience/engagement. Recruitment began before COVID-19, halted, and then re-started late-Summer 2020. Recruited women were randomized to the 16-week guided (G) or self-guided (SG) intervention. The G-Group attended 2x-weekly classes led by bilingual, bicultural, fitness-certified instructors. The SG-group received the same curriculum materials, but no classes. COVID-19-related accommodations included live streaming classes via ZOOM, social distancing/mask policies and others.Results: 33 LBGCS consented before the COVID-19 outbreak; 7 withdrew due to COVID-19 related reasons, 26 completed baseline data collection and were randomized to the G-(n=12) or SG-Group (n-14). 96% were retained post-intervention. Neither group had significant weight change. The G-group had improved handgrip strength (p=.001), leg strength (p=.003), greater greens/beans (p=.014), reduced added sugars (p=0.376), reduced perceived stress (p=.027) and less sleep disturbance (p=.007). COVID-19 impacted themes including technology access/support, difficulties enacting program recommendations due to pandemic-related fear/anxiety, and positive program support experiences. Conclusion: Program feasibility/acceptability were demonstrated. Weight loss was not achieved, but diet and physical activity were impacted. COVID-19 affected recruitment and program activities, yet strengths include continued engagement, positive feedback, and behavior change.
Keywords: breast cancer, gynecological cancer, latina/hispanic survivorship, adapted weightloss interventions