'Probably better than any medication we can give you': General practitioners' views on exercise and nutrition in cancer

Abstract

Background and objectives: Exercise and healthy eating patterns are effective in improving health-related quality of life for patients with cancer. However, little is known about general practitioners' (GPs') views and experiences regarding providing exercise and nutrition recommendations to their patients with cancer. The aim of this study was to 1) report GPs' experiences of providing nutrition and exercise advice to their patients and 2) identify perceived barriers and enablers to implementation of exercise and nutrition advice throughout the cancer journey from the GP perspective.

Method: Twenty-three semi-structured interviews were conducted, and transcripts coded by two independent researchers. A thematic analysis was performed to derive main themes.

Results: Four main themes were identified: the importance of exercise and nutrition recommendations for patients with cancer, the influence of the patient agenda, the influence of additional training or personal interest of the GP, and limitations of the primary care setting.

Discussion: Increased communication between primary and tertiary care, availability of resources, professional development opportunities and access to allied health services is needed to further support GPs to deliver exercise and nutrition information to their patients with cancer. This study provides evidence of GPs' desire to be involved in supporting the healthy exercise and nutrition habits of their patients with cancer and presents avenues for future research and resource development.