"I attended a Focus Group for Womb Cancer Survivors who had completed treatment last weekend. It was held at the University College of London as part of a PHd study exploring the patient's attitude to diet and healthy lifestyle beyond cancer. Members of the group explained what they personally believed constituted a healthy lifestyle. This covered aspects of physical,mental and sexual well being as well as maintaining a balance of work and family comittments.
Everybody recognised the need to consume as many unprocessed foods as possible, although most members still enjoyed regular treats, especially wine!! However quite a few were unable to tolerate certain food groups due to ongoing bowel problems caused by the effect of radiotherapy. It was discussed whether patients should be made more aware of the long term effect of radiotherapy BEFORE they consent to treatment. With regard to exercise,whilst aware of its benefit,some people were unable to participate as fully as they did before diagnosis due to fatigue,whilst others had to adapt the type of activities they performed because of pain and discomfort again caused by radiotherapy. Others benefitted socially and mentally through becoming more active,and some seriously challenged themselves physically as a means of feeling they had beaten cancer. Finally, as womb cancer is affecting a significant number of younger women,many with obesity problems,questions were raised whether an 8 week programme highlighting the benefits of a healthy lifestyle would be worth adopting throughout the country. This would be initially be developed by health professionals who would then train lay people to run the programme in community settings.I found it worthwhile attending the Focus Group, as it was a means of meeting up with other womb cancer survivors,and may hopefully provide help for women diagnosed in the future."
If you are interested in being part of the focus group and taking part in the research you can find out more details here https://www.facebook.com/notes/womb-cancer-support-uk/research-project-about-lifestyle-and-long-term-health/635827919828654
xx Kaz xx