Obesity is not only a recognized risk factor for cancer, but it is also associated with worsened prognosis and an increased risk for recurrence. A cancer diagnosis opens the opportunity to talk with patients about lifestyle issues that contribute to obesity and offer advice on changes they can make to mitigate their risks. Familiarize yourself with the latest evidence and guidelines about obesity and cancer as well as nursing interventions that can be integrated into your patient education.
Objectives
- Understand the impact of obesity on screening and diagnosis during treatment for patients with cancer and for survivors.
- Understand barriers for professionals and patients impacting the care of the patient with cancer who is obese.
- Apply evidence from clinical data supporting the role and real-world use of life-style interventions in the practice setting for patients with cancer who are obese.
- Individualize care for patients who are overweight or obese by employing practice tools that assist in acquiring a comfort level with strategies to treat this patient group.
