Changes in the dietary habits of breast cancer patients: A scoping review

This study examines the extent to which women diagnosed with breast cancer are motivated to change their dietary habits whilst undergoing adjuvant chemotherapy. The research question is addressed as a review within the framework of a scoping review. A systematic literature search is conducted, and the resulting included studies are analysed within a qualitative, inductive content analysis across six categories. The results show that women diagnosed with breast cancer are motivated to change their dietary behaviour whilst undergoing adjuvant chemotherapy. However, an individualised, timely and patient-centred nutritional therapy is necessary. Recommendations regarding healthy eating alone, without individualised dietary interventions, do not achieve the desired weight changes or improvements in food choices. The findings suggest that tailored nutritional therapy following diagnosis and during medical treatment should be an integral part of standard care for breast cancer patients.