A systematic mixed studies review of health behaviour change interventions in colorectal cancer survivors

To explore available health behaviour change interventions in improving key health behaviours in colorectal cancer survivors and patient perspectives about these interventions.

A systematic mixed studies review was conducted.

Databases searched included Ovid Medline, Ovid Embase, EBSCO PsychoInfo and EBSCO CINAHL. A grey literature search was also completed using Google Scholar and the TRIP database. Identified studies were published between 2003 - 2018.

A parallel-results convergent synthesis design using narrative syntheses was used. Data analysis was conducted following a process of constant comparison. Quality appraisal was conducted using recognized tools appropriate to different study designs.

Sixteen unique studies were identified from an initial search of 354 records. There was a pattern of successful physical activity and dietary change associated with behaviour change interventions of varying intensity, modality and length, but sparse description of intervention content was common. Participants preferred clear explanations of health behaviour importance and for interventions to be administered in sessions either with, or led by, other patients.

The available evidence tentatively suggests that behaviour change interventions can improve the health behaviours of colorectal cancer survivors. However, more research focused on identifying key intervention elements is needed. Patients indicated clear preferences for specific intervention content and delivery, but further research is needed to allow for the appropriate incorporation of patient preferences into the design of such interventions.

This review highlights the potential for interventions to improve health behaviours evidenced to influence short and long-term health outcomes in colorectal cancer survivors. However, the examination of the impact of these interventions and patient perspectives indicated a paucity of research. This is an important finding in demonstrating additional research is necessary to improve the support available to a growing group of patients with complex health needs.