A University of Manchester study is seeking to explore the views of mothers at increased risk of breast cancer on a potential new family weight loss programme to help reduce risk of breast cancer.
Mai Haiba, a PhD student supervised by Professor Michelle Harvie, is looking for 20-25 mothers who:
- Are mothers/guardians with children under 18 years living in the same household.
- Have been informed by healthcare services that they are at increased risk of breast cancer and have been seen at an NHS breast cancer assessment clinic.
- Have lived experience of trying to manage their weight while living with overweight or obesity.
- Do not have a current or previous diagnosis of breast cancer.
- Have not had bariatric surgery or used GLP-1 weight loss injections.
Why is this study important?
Maintaining a healthy weight through a balanced diet and regular physical activity can reduce the risk of developing breast cancer. For mothers, however, managing weight loss while balancing the demands of family life can be a major challenge.
This interview research study aims to better understand how families can support mothers to control their weight, especially with the aim of reducing the risk of breast cancer.
The researchers want to explore the dynamics between mothers and their families during weight loss, hear your thoughts on how family members can get involved to help or, in some cases, unintentionally hinder progress. Additionally, they are seeking input from healthcare professionals who have worked with mothers facing similar challenges.
What does the study involve?
Taking part involves an online interview with the researcher Mai Haiba lasting up to an hour, and translators can be provided if required. You will receive payment for your time for taking part.
Professor Michelle Harvie is an award-winning research dietitian and was one of the first to demonstrate that weight loss can reduce risk of breast cancer:
Being a healthy weight can reduce risk of breast cancer, but we know this is a challenge, especially for mothers with a family. This research is hoping to make it easier for mothers and their families to follow cancer risk-reducing diet and activity advice. The programme we develop will be tested out in high-risk clinics and will provide a tool for reducing risk of breast cancer.
What will the interviews explore?
- Mothers will be asked for their views on how family members, particularly partners and children, can support or sometimes hinder attempts to lose weight.
- How breast cancer risk is communicated to partners and children, and the role families play in helping to manage this risk.
- What might work best for getting the whole family on board with healthier eating and exercise habits to support the mother.
What should I do if I want to take part?
Please read the participant information sheet so you are fully informed about the study.
If you think you may be interested in taking part and want more information please contact Mai Haiba at mai.haiba@postgrad.manchester.ac.uk or call 07350715982.
The team look forward to learning from your experiences and views as part of this important research.
About Prevent Breast Cancer
Prevent Breast Cancer is the only UK charity entirely dedicated to the prediction and prevention of breast cancer – we’re committed to freeing the world from the disease altogether. Unlike many cancer charities, we’re focused on preventing, rather than curing. Promoting early diagnosis, screening and lifestyle changes, we believe we can stop the problem before it starts. And being situated at the only breast cancer prevention centre in the UK, we’re right at the front-line in the fight against the disease. Join us today and help us create a future free from breast cancer. If you have any questions or concerns, email us today.
