Background
Weight gain is common after a breast cancer diagnosis. We have previously demonstrated that 75% of women with breast cancer would try a complementary therapy such as acupuncture, yoga and mindfulness meditation to assist with weight management. However, there is a paucity of high-quality randomised controlled trial (RCT) evidence for the use of these interventions for managing weight after breast cancer.
Aim
Assess feasibility and acceptability of RCTs with acupuncture, yoga, and mindfulness meditation for managing weight after breast cancer.
Methods
We conducted a qualitative study using focus group and semi-structured interviews which were audio recorded and transcribed verbatim. Purposive sampling was used to recruit women who had received a variety of treatments for breast cancer. Participants were asked about experiences of weight management after breast cancer, experiences/knowledge/use of acupuncture, yoga and mindfulness meditation, and aspects of RCT design. Data were collected until data saturation was achieved and subjected to thematic analysis.
Results/Outcomes
37 women contributed data in five focus groups and one interview, including one focus group (n=6) in women from culturally and linguistically diverse backgrounds. Mean age was 54 years and most women had early breast cancer. Women expressed positive attitudes towards the use of mindfulness meditation and yoga for weight management after breast cancer. Engaging in these practices was seen as an important way to regain control and return to “normal life” after treatment for breast cancer. They were hesitant about acupuncture, perceiving it to be invasive. A focus on wellness, rather than weight, was suggested. Education, peer support, and flexibility would be desirable, as well as practitioners who are knowledgeable about cancer.
Conclusions
RCTs on mindfulness meditation and yoga for managing weight after breast cancer are feasible and acceptable to women, and more research in this area is warranted.