Cross-sectional study of adherence to American Cancer Society nutrition and physical activity guidelines among cancer survivors

The American Cancer Society’s nutrition and physical activity guidelines are intended to reduce morbidity and mortality among cancer survivors. A cross-sectional study using data from the Behavioral Risk Factor Surveillance System (2017, 2019, en 2021) investigated the self-reported adherence to these guideline among 10,020 cancer survivors. A total of 72% of survivors met criteria for adequate physical activity, 68% did not have obesity, 12% consumed adequate amounts of fruits and vegetables, and 50% did not drink alcohol. In total, 4% of survivors adhered to all 4 guidelines. Factors associated with greater adherence included female sex, older age, Black race, higher educational level, and residence in Western US states. The authors conclude that there remains a gap between ideal and observed adherence to healty behavior guidelines among cancer survivors.