31 Aug 2022
Leading cancer prevention and survival charity World Cancer Research Fund (WCRF), in partnership with the British Dietetic Association (BDA) Oncology Specialist Group and the National Institute for Health and Care Research’s (NIHR) Cancer & Nutrition Collaboration, today announces the launch of a new digital one-stop hub of frequently asked questions (FAQs) designed to support people living with and beyond cancer.
The one-of-a-kind online resource comprises a database of answers to common FAQs people have about diet, nutrition and other lifestyle factors following a cancer diagnosis. These range from how to deal with and manage some of the common side-effects of cancer treatment, whether a vegan diet can delay cancer growth, to how important protein is, and how safe it is to exercise during cancer. The freely accessible content has been reviewed by a number of experts, ensuring that the advice and information contained in the FAQs is evidence-based.
According to a poll of 1,127 people affected by cancer commissioned by WCRF, over one in two (55%) respondents said neither they nor their family member received any dietary guidance or advice after diagnosis. Only 28% received appropriate support.
WCRF and its partners will continue to develop new and review existing content as it builds up its bank of available FAQs. The aim is for health professionals to begin to signpost cancer patients to the new content. Patients and carers will also be able to locate the FAQs directly, via Google searches.
The new content can be found at www.wcrf-uk.org/cancerfaqs
Rachael Gormley, Chief Executive at World Cancer Research Fund, said:
Following a diagnosis of cancer, it can be a postcode lottery as to the sort of dietary advice someone is likely to receive from a healthcare professional. It’s also really challenging to navigate all the information about diet that’s out there, even with support from a professional like a dietitian. We’re here to help with an accessible, easy-to-use resource which answers all the key questions people may have about what to eat following a cancer diagnosis and how to deal with certain side effects of treatment, such as taste changes.
Loraine Gillespie, Chair of the BDA Oncology Specialist Group, said:
As oncology dietitians we know how many myths circulate about diet and cancer creating confusion for people. This evidence-based resource will be invaluable for patients and health professionals alike.
Professor Emeritus Sam H Ahmedzai, Chair of the NIHR Cancer & Nutrition Collaboration, said
We are delighted to have worked with our partner WCRF over the past year to bring out this amazing new resource for people – patients and their families – affected by cancer. Our remit is to improve the scientific evidence underpinning healthy eating and physical activity for cancer patients at all stages. This new digital hub will now reach out this evidence base to many more people, including health professionals.
Ends
The content for the FAQs originated from Wereld Kanker Onderzoek Fonds (WKOF), part of the WCRF International Network.
There are more than 40 FAQs available on the WCRF website, covering a range of topics related to diet, nutrition, and physical activity while living with and beyond cancer.
Over the next 6-12 months, WCRF will gather user feedback to evaluate and enhance the information it is offering those living with cancer (and their families), and aims to add further FAQs over time to ensure that it provides the most valuable advice and information needed.
Poll findings are taken from a WCRF Cancer Census, dated Nov-Dec 2021, where responses from 1,127 people affected by cancer were received.
For media enquiries contact Diana Mackie, Head of Communications at WCRF at d.mackie@wcrf.org / 07879 483022
World Cancer Research Fund examines how diet, nutrition, body weight and physical activity affect your risk of developing and surviving cancer. As part of an international network of charities, we have been funding life-saving research, influencing global public health policy, and educating the public since 1982. While society continues searching for a cure, our prevention and survival work is helping people live longer, happier, healthier lives – free from the devastating effects of cancer. www.wcrf-uk.org and Twitter, Facebook, Instagram & LinkedIn.
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