Nutritional concerns of women with breast cancer

Health professionals should assess the nutrition information needs of women with breast cancer in order to provide appropriate services. Questionnaires were mailed to 143 Reach to Recovery volunteers who had had surgery for breast cancer, and 72% responded. The subjects were mostly concerned about and wanted information on diets for cancer prevention, low-fat diets, weight reduction, and vitamin supplements. Findings also showed the potential for excessive vitamin/mineral use among one-third of respondents and a tendency toward weight gain regardless of whether or not chemotherapy was received. The results provide direction for development of nutrition educational materials and programs for women with breast cancer.