| Purpose: The objective of this study was to assess adherence of childhood cancer survivors to the American Cancer Society (ACS) Guidelines on Nutrition and Physical Activity.;Methods: Childhood cancer survivors (n=413, 18.5 ± 8.1 years from diagnosis) and controls (n=361) completed a structured, health-focused interview as part of the Chicago Healthy Living Study. Validated instruments, including the Block Brief food frequency questionnaire, were used along with height and weight measurements. Responses were scored based on ACS guidelines with comparisons made between survivors and controls and among racial-ethnic groups.;Results: There was no difference in overall ACS adherence scores between survivors and controls (4.3 ± 1.5 vs. 4.21 ± 1.5, p=0.54). Survivors compared to controls had a lower BMI (27.9 ± 7.0 vs. 29.3 ± 7.8 kg/m², p=0.01) and consumed less fiber (9.2 ± 3.5 vs. 9.7 ± 3.8 g, p=0.05). ACS adherence scores did not differ among racial-ethnic groups, but differences were observed with respect to component behaviors. Among survivors, Hispanics had a higher BMI when compared to whites (29.2 ± 7.4 and 26.2 ± 5.3 kg/m², p=0.001). Median alcoholic drinks per day was greater in whites compared to other racial-ethnic groups (p<0.017 for all comparisons).;Conclusions: Compared to controls, survivors are not practicing healthier behaviors. Further information on how to best provide health interventions in this group is warranted.;Implications for Cancer Survivors: There is much room for improvement in educating and encouraging childhood cancer survivors to follow healthier diet and lifestyle routines to prevent further morbidity. |
