Changes in modifiable life style factors in women with an increased hereditary risk for breast and ovarian cancer during the SARS-CoV-2 pandemic in Germany: A cross-sectional web-based survey

ABSTRACT

Background: Pathogenic mutations in BRCA1 and BRCA2 are associated with high risks of breast (BC) and ovarian cancer (OC). Modifiable life style factors are important in explaining some of the variation in cancer risks in both, OC and BC. Crucial steps to prevent malignant disease are increased physical activity, avoidance of smoking, limitation of the intake of red meat or alcohol. Method(s) To assess possible changes in life style, a web-based survey was placed on internet platforms of patients' support groups between 29th January and 22th April 2021. Missing data were composed of those patients who did not answer the question or who did not have a clear opinion regarding the topic. Data are presented as frequencies of selected items. Group differences were calculated by chi2-test. Result(s) During the pandemic, 10.5% of respondents consumed significantly more or more alcohol, while 31.6% consumed less or significantly less alcohol than before the pandemic. With respect to abuse of nicotine, 11.8% consumed more and 17.6% consumed less than before the pandemic. 16.2% engaged in significantly more or more physical activity, whereas 47.1% engaged in less or significantly less physical activity, respectively. 8.7% stated that they maintained a healthy body weight, while 17.4% did not. A healthy diet was strictly observed or observed by 13.9% of respondents, while 23.6% observed a healthy diet less or significantly less than before the pandemic. Discussion(s) The exact impact of life style changes during the SARS-CoV-2 pandemic on cancer (recurrence) risk, as well as on subsequent survival, is still unknown, but it has the potential to lead to important public health implications in the coming years. Conclusion(s) Thus, especially during challenging periods of life, women at high risk for cancer occurrence or recurrence should be reassured that observing a healthy lifestyle (healthy diet, control of obesity, decreased smoking etc.) is an excellent option for cancer prevention and increased survival.