Health Coaching for Cancer Survivorship

(HealthScore Trial)

This trial tests a 6-month health coaching program for cancer patients and survivors at the UNC Cancer Hospital. The program aims to maintain physical health and address needs such as nutrition, emotional well-being, and social support. Participants receive personalized coaching and complete regular health surveys. Ideal candidates are those currently undergoing cancer treatment or in survivorship with appointments at the hospital and who are comfortable using digital tools like email and wearable sensors. As an unphased trial, it offers participants personalized support to enhance overall well-being.

The trial information does not specify whether you need to stop taking your current medications. It seems likely that you can continue your medications, but you should confirm with the trial coordinators.

Research has shown that health coaching is generally safe and well-tolerated. Reviews of various studies have found that it can help reduce anxiety and depression in cancer patients. These mental health issues often link to a higher risk of cancer-related problems, so managing them is important.

Researchers are excited about health coaching for cancer survivorship because it offers a personalized, holistic approach to post-cancer care. Unlike standard treatments that focus primarily on medical interventions like chemotherapy and radiation, health coaching emphasizes lifestyle changes and emotional support to improve quality of life. This method empowers participants by providing a dedicated health coach for six months, which can lead to better adherence to healthy habits and potentially reduce the risk of cancer recurrence. By focusing on the overall well-being of survivors, health coaching addresses gaps in traditional care and fosters long-term health management.

Research has shown that health coaching can be very beneficial for cancer patients and survivors. Studies have found that it improves overall health, fitness, and well-being. For instance, a mobile health coaching program significantly reduced symptoms and enhanced the quality of life for participants. Group health coaching has also supported cancer patients and survivors in making healthy lifestyle changes. These findings suggest that health coaching can effectively address various needs, such as physical, nutritional, and emotional, for cancer survivors. In this trial, all participants will receive health coaching for six months to evaluate its impact on cancer survivorship.³⁴⁶⁷⁸