(P28-022-23) Exploring Female Cancer Survivors’ Needs and Preferences for Fertility Nutrition Programming: The Fertility, Cancer, Nutrition and Diet (FECAND) Study

Objectives: Young women diagnosed with cancer have a 30% increased relative risk for infertility compared to women without a cancer history. Maintaining a healthy body weight and consuming a high quality diet are associated with both improved fertility and healthy cancer survivorship, yet dietary interventions tailored to the unique needs of female cancer survivors with fertility challenges are reportedly absent from practice. This study explored female cancer survivors’ lifestyle and nutrition programming preferences to inform future interventions to support fertility treatment.

Methods: This study used a multiple methods design including in-depth interviews and dietary assessment. Participant-check focus group discussions were conducted to validate interview findings. 20 female cancer survivors with fertility challenges participated in the study. Quantitative data were analyzed using descriptive statistics and qualitative data were thematically analyzed using inductive and deductive coding.

Results: Average age of respondents was 31.47±3.5 years and average BMI was 24.78±4.1 kg/m². Participants were college educated (100%); 45% identified as White, 50% as Black. Cancer diagnoses included breast, thyroid, ovarian, leukemia and gastrointestinal cancers. Many participants self-reported inadequate fertility nutrition knowledge. Themes identified included: (1) Desiring to take an active part in the fertility process (2) The need for detailed nutrition guidance (3) Looking for approachable healthcare professionals (4) Flexibility of diet plans and (5) Reassuring to hear other women’s experiences.

Conclusions: These findings indicate a sought after yet unmet need for dietary guidance for female cancer survivors as they navigate to improve their fertility and nutrition post-cancer treatment. The focus of these interventions should be on providing evidence-based fertility-related nutrition information, culinary skills, behavioral change techniques, person-centered care and peer interaction, with an overall aim to empower participants to make healthful dietary choices that could potentially improve their fertility chances.

Funding Sources: ASN Predoctoral Fellowship Award 2021, Drexel University College of Nursing and Health Professions.