No abstract

Cancer survivors are often highly motivated to seek information about food choices, physical activity, dietary supplement use, and complementary nutritional therapies to improve their treatment outcomes, quality of life, and survival. To address these concerns, the American Cancer Society (ACS) convened a group of experts in nutrition, physical activity, and cancer to evaluate the scientific evidence and best clinical practices related to optimal nutrition and physical activity after the diagnosis of cancer. This report summarizes their findings and is intended to present health care providers with the best possible information on which to help cancer survivors and their families make informed choices related to nutrition and physical activity. The report discusses nutrition and physical activity issues during the phases of cancer treatment and recovery, living after recovery from treatment, and living with advanced cancer; selected nutritional and physical activity issues such as body weight, food choices, and complementary and alternative nutritional options; and selected issues related to breast, colorectal, lung, prostate, head and neck, and upper gastrointestinal cancers. In addition, handouts containing commonly asked questions and answers and a resource list are provided for survivors and families. Tables that grade the scientific evidence for benefit versus harm related to nutrition and physical activity for breast, colorectal, lung, and prostate cancers are also included for this growing body of knowledge to provide guidance for informed decision making and to identify areas for future research. (CA Cancer J Clin 2003;53:268 -291.)

Background. In 1985, the American Cancer Society (ACS) replaced their Junior Faculty Clinical Oncology Program with the 3‐year Clinical Oncology Career Development Award (COCD A). It was proposed that the longer duration and larger stipend of the COCDA would have a greater impact in encouraging promising young clinical oncologists to enter and remain in academic oncology. The COCDA was evaluated at this time to determine whether these goals had been achieved. Methods. A questionnaire was sent to 104 of the total of 121 people who received awards in 1985, 1986, and 1987. Results. A review of the 85 completed questionnaires showed that the COCDA had a significant impact on the recipients. Most have remained in academic settings and have flourished, as evidenced by their publication record and success in obtaining extramural funds, despite their clinical orientation. Conclusions. The COCDA has achieved its initial goals and will remain an important part of the professional education efforts of the ACS.