WEIGHT-GAIN IN WOMEN DIAGNOSED WITH BREAST-CANCER

This review of the literature indicates that weight gain is a common o bservation among women after the diagnosis of breast cancer. Gains in weight range from 0 to 50 lb and are influenced by menopausal status; nodal status; and the type, duration, and intensity of treatment. Weig ht gain appears to be greater among premenopausal women; among those w ho are node positive; and among those receiving higher dose, longer du ration, and multiagent regimens. Psychosocial research suggests that w eight gain has a profoundly negative impact on quality of life in pati ents with breast cancer. Recent findings also suggest that weight gain during therapy may increase the risk of recurrence and decrease survi val. Although weight gain in patients with breast cancer is clinically well appreciated, little research has been conducted to investigate t he underlying mechanisms of energy imbalance. Changes in rates of meta bolism, physical activity, and dietary intake are all plausible mechan isms and call for more research. Further study will provide valuable i nsight into the problem of weight gain and encourage effective interve ntions to improve the quality and quantity of life for the woman with breast cancer. Until more is known, however, dietetics practitioners w ill have to monitor and work individually with patients with breast ca ncer and use empirical approaches to achieve the important goal of wei ght management.