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. 2025 May 31;33(6):519.
doi: 10.1007/s00520-025-09564-w.

Social determinants of health, diet, and symptom experiences in colorectal cancer survivors: A scoping review

Youran Lee  1 , Yufen Lin  2 , Zahra A Barandouzi  2 , Leila Ledbetter  3 , Rosa Gonzalez-Guarda  4
Affiliations

Social determinants of health, diet, and symptom experiences in colorectal cancer survivors: A scoping review

Youran Lee et al. Support Care Cancer. .

Abstract

Purpose: Colorectal cancer is the third most common cancer in the United States, and many colorectal cancer survivors often experience various symptoms significantly influenced by diet. Although it is known that social determinants of health can lead to notable inequities that affect lifestyle and quality of life, limited studies have examined the interplay of social determinants of health and diet on symptom experiences in this population. This scoping review aimed to explore relationships among social determinants of health, diet, and symptom experiences in colorectal cancer survivors.

Methods: This study adhered to the Joanna Briggs Institute scoping review methodology, following the framework established by Arksey and O'Malley. Five databases were searched on September 22, 2023, and updated on April 2, 2024, including Medline, CINAHL, Embase, Web of Science, and APA PsycINFO. The review was performed using the PCC (Population, Concept, Context) format to examine symptom experiences in the context of social determinants of health and diet among colorectal cancer survivors.

Result: A total of 21 articles were included. Reported symptoms included gastrointestinal, chemotherapy-related, physical, and psychological symptoms. Social determinants of health at the individual level (age, gender, race/ethnicity, marital status, education, income) and relationship level (social support needs) were identified as influencing symptom experiences. Dietary choices and intake also impacted symptom experiences.

Conclusion/implication: Significant associations exist between social determinants of health, diet, and symptom experiences in colorectal cancer survivors. Further exploration into how these factors influence symptom experiences is necessary to inform future tailored interventions to better support this population.

Keywords: Colorectal cancer; Diet; Social determinants of health; Symptom experiences.

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Conflict of interest statement

Declarations. Competing interests: The authors declare no competing interests.

References

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