The Fertility, Cancer, Nutrition and Diet (FECAND) Study: Female Cancer Survivor and Health Care Provider...

Female cancer survivors (FCS) have a higher risk of infertility compared to women without a history of cancer. Consuming healthful diets could improve female fertility and promote healthy cancer survivorship. As an initial step to intervention development, this study explores FCS and healthcare provider (HCP) perspectives regarding nutrition and fertility. We conducted semi-structured interviews with 11 HCPs and a secondary analysis of qualitative data from 20 FCS. Data were analyzed using directed content analysis. Two broad themes were identified with several interrelated subthemes: (1) Barriers to Optimal Nutrition: Subthemes: Time Constraints (Both HCPs and FCS); Absence of Standardized Guidelines due to perceived lack of Research and Education (HCPs); Unclear and Insufficient Dietary Guidance (FCS) and (2) Ideas and Opinions about Fertility Nutrition: Subthemes: Skeptic Acknowledgment of Potential (HCPs); Motivation to Change Nutrition Behavior (FCS). Healthful nutrition may improve fertility in women and would be of particular importance for FCS who are at an increased risk of infertility. Addressing the challenges in adopting a healthful diet is essential for creating effective interventions.