Weight Loss Program for Breast Cancer Survivors
What You Need to Know Before You Apply
What is the purpose of this trial?
This trial explores new methods to help Latina breast cancer survivors lose weight through online programs tailored to their community. The focus is on providing support not typically available, which could improve overall health and breast cancer recovery. Participants will engage with the ¡Vida! program, which includes online health education, dietary changes, and home exercise. Some will receive additional guidance through resources like health coaching. This trial suits Latina breast cancer survivors diagnosed within the last five years, with a BMI of 27 or greater, and internet access for online sessions. As an unphased trial, it offers a unique opportunity to contribute to innovative research that could enhance recovery and health outcomes for Latina breast cancer survivors.
Will I have to stop taking my current medications?
The trial protocol does not specify whether you need to stop taking your current medications. However, current endocrine therapy is allowed, so you may not need to stop all medications.
Is there any evidence suggesting that this trial's treatments are likely to be safe?
Research has shown that weight loss programs designed for breast cancer survivors, delivered remotely and tailored to cultural needs, are generally safe. Studies on similar programs have found that participants can lose weight effectively without major side effects. For instance, breast cancer patients in a similar program lost about 4.7% of their starting weight, indicating the program is well-tolerated.
These programs typically include online health education, dietary changes, and home-based exercises, which are common and generally safe ways to manage weight. Participants also use tools like fitness trackers, known to be safe for most people. While each program may differ, the components used here have a strong safety record in other settings.
This trial is in the "Not Applicable" phase, indicating it is early in testing. The focus is on understanding its effectiveness and safety. However, since the program uses well-established methods, it is expected to be safe for most participants.12345Why are researchers excited about this trial?
Researchers are excited about these weight loss interventions for breast cancer survivors because they offer a tailored, remote approach that integrates cultural sensitivity, which is not typically emphasized in standard weight loss programs. The interventions use the ¡Vida! program, which includes 24 online health sessions, dietary changes, and home-based exercises. Participants receive support through devices like Fitbits and access to resources like the Cook for Your Life website. Additionally, some program variations include Experiential Learning sessions, individualized health coaching, and mailed toolkits, offering a comprehensive and adaptable approach to weight management that goes beyond traditional methods. These features could lead to more effective and sustainable weight loss outcomes by addressing the unique needs of breast cancer survivors.
What evidence suggests that this trial's treatments could be effective for weight loss in Latina breast cancer survivors?
Research has shown that weight loss programs delivered remotely and tailored to cultural needs can benefit breast cancer survivors. This trial will enroll participants in different arms to test the effectiveness of various interventions. One study showed that participants in a similar program lost an average of 4.7% of their body weight after one year. This is important because being overweight can lead to worse outcomes for breast cancer patients. Early results suggest that focusing on diet, exercise, and cultural preferences can help achieve these results. Although no specific programs exist for Latina breast cancer survivors yet, these tailored programs seem promising in filling this gap.12367
Who Is on the Research Team?
Heather Greenlee
Principal Investigator
Fred Hutch/University of Washington Cancer Consortium
Are You a Good Fit for This Trial?
This trial is for Latina women who have survived breast cancer, are overweight with a BMI of 30 or higher, and are at least 60 days post-treatment. They must be fluent in Spanish or English, have no recurrent disease, and be able to use the internet and phone. Exclusions include insulin-dependent diabetics, those with major health issues preventing weight loss, active smokers, pregnant women or those planning pregnancy.Inclusion Criteria
Exclusion Criteria
Timeline for a Trial Participant
Baseline
Participants receive written instructions and website link to an instructional video along with supportive materials including measuring tape, Aria WiFi-enabled scale, and Actigraph accelerometer to be worn for 7 days at baseline. Patients also undergo blood sample collection at baseline.
Stage I
Eligible participants are randomized to receive the online ¡Vida! program with health education sessions, dietary modifications, and home-based exercise sessions. Supportive materials include a Fitbit Aria scale, a Fitbit Luxe, the Fitbit app, and access to the Cook for Your Life website. Blood samples are collected.
Stage II
Participants achieving >= 2% weight loss continue their assigned interventions. Non-responders are re-randomized to receive additional interventions including lifestyle sessions, health coaching, and monthly groceries.
Follow-up
Participants are monitored for safety and effectiveness after treatment, with body weight percent change assessed up to 12 months.
What Are the Treatments Tested in This Trial?
Interventions
- Remotely Delivered, Culturally Tailored Weight Loss Interventions
Find a Clinic Near You
Who Is Running the Clinical Trial?
Fred Hutchinson Cancer Center
Lead Sponsor
National Cancer Institute (NCI)
Collaborator