Can weight gain be prevented in women receiving treatment for breast cancer? A systematic review of intervention studies.

BACKGROUND: Obesity and weight gain have been associated with poor disease-specific and health-related outcomes in women with breast cancer.

OBJECTIVES: This review aimed to evaluate the effectiveness of weight gain prevention interventions among women with breast cancer.

METHODS: Completed and ongoing trials evaluating a behaviourally based dietary intervention with or without physical activity and with a focus on weight gain prevention during treatment for breast cancer were reviewed. Weight change and body composition data were extracted. Within-group weight change of ±1 kg and between-group (intervention versus control) weight difference of ≥2 kg were defined as successful weight gain prevention.

RESULTS: Five completed trials (seven intervention arms) and five ongoing trials were identified. Completed trials exclusively recruited premenopausal or premenopausal and postmenopausal women. Within-group weight gain was prevented in two intervention arms, two arms achieved weight loss and three arms reported weight gain. Of the five comparisons with control groups, two reported significant differences in weight change between groups. Ongoing trials will provide further evidence on longer-term outcomes, cost-effectiveness and blood markers.

CONCLUSION: This small but growing number of studies provides preliminary and promising evidence that weight gain can be prevented in women with breast cancer undergoing chemotherapy.