ABSTRACT
Cancer survivors are at risk for many age-related chronic diseases including secondary malignancies, cardiovascular disease, diabetes, and osteoporosis. The majority of cancer survivors (60%–78%) have at least one chronic medical condition prior to being diagnosed with cancer. Cancer treatments, including surgery, radiation, and chemotherapy, may further increase the risk for age-related chronic conditions. The catabolic metabolism and inactivity occurring during cancer therapy could put cancer survivors at increased risk for weight gain and development of obesity after treatment. Finally, depression and anxiety are common in cancer survivors and this also can increase this population’s risk for chronic diseases. Healthcare providers for cancer survivors must be aware of these long-term sequelae so preventive measures may be implemented. These preventive measures include a plan to achieve optimal nutrition and maintain a healthy body weight through colorful fruits and vegetables and adequate protein in combination with exercise.
