What Do We Know About Group Health Coaching and Cancer Survivorship? A Scoping Review

Abstract

Group health coaching (GHC) may be a suitable method for supporting healthy lifestyle behaviors in cancer patients and survivors. The aim of this scoping review was to explore GHC interventions targeting this population, specifically examining program composition and measured outcomes. A systematic search strategy was used to identify intervention studies focused on GHC with cancer patients and survivors. Seven studies met the criteria. Studies focused on physical activity, diet, weight loss, or some combination thereof utilizing GHC by itself or as one component of an exercise and/or diet intervention. There was a wide range of measured outcomes, grouped into: feasibility/acceptability; physical activity/exercise; body composition and biomarkers; diet; distress, quality of life, fatigue; and other. Overall, studies were found to be feasible and showed positive results for weight loss, diet, and quality of life. Findings for changes in physical activity, distress, and fatigue were mixed. Additionally, variability was found in many of the GHC components. This review suggests GHC for cancer patients and survivors is still in the nascent stages. However, these studies were deemed feasible and satisfactory to participants, with positive outcomes noted. While still in the early stages, GHC appears promising for supporting positive lifestyle behaviors in this population.