Evidence for the benefits of lifestyle medicine interventions in breast cancer survivorship
Laura E. Wright, Preeti Sudheendra
Abstract
There are currently 4 million breast cancer survivors in the United States, and this number is expected to substantially increase in the decades to come. Breast cancer survivors experience treatment- and cancer-related debility, stress, and isolation that exceed rates in the general population. This review provides evidence for survival and quality of life benefits in patients living with breast cancer with the implementation of the 6 pillars of lifestyle medicine, which include physical activity, nutrition, social connection, adequate sleep, stress management, and avoidance of toxic substances. Overwhelmingly, lifestyle modifications and support of psychosocial health improve survival and quality of life in patients living with breast cancer. Data presented here suggest that patients living with breast cancer would benefit from a comprehensive lifestyle medicine approach to survivorship and formal implementation of such programs could significantly impact cancer mortality and morbidity.