Wellness Coaching: An Intervention to Increase Healthy Behavior in Breast Cancer Survivors.
Daniela L Stan, Susanne M Cutshall, Tammy F Adams and 11 others
PMID 32441691WHAT IT FOUND
In 20 breast cancer survivors, nurse coaching had 96% phone-call adherence and 0.5% attrition, but recruitment was 49%, below the 50% target.
Activity and diet self-reports improved, without a control group.
Key findings
01The pilot met its attrition and adherence feasibility goals, but recruitment was 49%, below the 50% target.
02Self-reported 30-minute physical activity days rose from 3.1 at baseline to 5.2 at week 12, and fast-food days fell from 4.2 to 2.3.
03Mean weight fell from 88.5 kg at baseline to 86.8 kg at week 12, then rose to 87.4 kg at week 30.
STILL TO COME
How it was doneWhat they foundWhat it means for RNs
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What it does not show
The study was small, with 20 participants analyzed, and it had no control group, so time since treatment or attention could explain the changes. Outcomes were self-reported, not measured objectively, and could be influenced by recollection or a wish to please providers. Recruitment was 49%, below the 50% feasibility target. The sample was primarily white, so applicability to more diverse or underserved populations is unknown. The study did not separate aerobic from strengthening physical activity. Some participants had reconstructive surgery during the study, which affected their activity and diet. No correction for multiple testing was applied.
Declared interests
The authors declared no conflict of interest. The article is tagged as supported by NIH extramural funding.
The easy way to misread this
Do not read the activity, diet, weight, or quality-of-life changes as proof that nurse coaching alone caused them. Participants also received wellness brochures, an electronic scale, and weekly emails, and the study had no control group. The contribution of any single component cannot be separated.