Healthy Lifestyle Program for Young Cancer Survivors

(HEALTHY-AYA Trial)

This trial aims to help young adult cancer survivors manage weight and improve heart health through a healthy lifestyle program called HEALTHY AYA. It targets those who have survived cancer but struggle with obesity and related symptoms like pain and fatigue. Participants will either join a group learning strategies for better diet and activity or receive general health information. Ideal candidates are young adults diagnosed with cancer between ages 18 and 39, with a BMI over 30, and who can exercise at home. As an unphased trial, this study offers a unique opportunity to contribute to research that could improve health outcomes for young adult cancer survivors.

The trial information does not specify whether you need to stop taking your current medications. It's best to discuss this with the trial coordinators or your doctor.

Research shows that healthy lifestyle programs can be safe and helpful for young cancer survivors. The "HEALTHY AYA" program assists with managing weight and symptoms through diet and exercise. This gentle approach teaches participants to handle symptoms like pain and tiredness while improving their diet and reducing sedentary time.

Specific data from past studies on the safety of this exact program is not available. However, similar programs are generally considered low-risk because they focus on improving daily habits, which typically do not cause harm. This program does not involve medications or surgery, reducing the chance of side effects.

Researchers are excited about the HEALTHY AYA program because it offers a fresh approach for young cancer survivors by focusing on lifestyle changes rather than traditional medical treatments. Unlike standard care, which might focus on medication or follow-up screenings, this program emphasizes cognitive and behavioral strategies to help manage symptoms and improve overall health. It uniquely combines improving diet and reducing sedentary behavior with mental health techniques, aiming to enhance long-term health outcomes for young survivors. By addressing these lifestyle factors, HEALTHY AYA could offer sustainable benefits that traditional treatments may not provide.

Research has shown that young cancer survivors often face long-term health issues such as heart disease, high blood pressure, and diabetes. Weight gain and unhealthy habits can worsen these problems. Studies indicate that a healthy lifestyle, including a balanced diet and regular exercise, can help manage weight and reduce the risk of heart disease. In this trial, participants in the HEALTHY AYA program will undergo an 8-session intervention designed to teach young survivors effective ways to manage symptoms and improve habits to protect their heart health. This approach is based on the idea that changing daily habits can greatly enhance overall health and well-being.²⁴⁶⁷⁸