Family factors as correlates of diet in relatives of colon cancer patients.
OBJECTIVE
To examine family social support and closeness to the patient for their association with diet in first-degree relatives (FDRs) of colon cancer patients.


METHODS
Participants (N=98) were interviewed by telephone to assess study constructs. Multiple hierarchical regressions examined relationships among family factors and diet.


RESULTS
Family social support was associated with healthier diets, particularly fruits and vegetables. However, FDRs closest to the cancer patient had less healthy diets.


CONCLUSIONS
FDRs with close relationships to their family member with cancer may be in greatest need of dietary intervention. Diet is understudied in this high-risk population and warrants more investigation.
Bean
Melanie K
MK
Department of Psychology, Virginia Commonwealth University, Box 842018, Richmond, VA 23284-2018, USA. mkbean@vcu.edu
Mazzeo
Suzanne E
SE
Fries
Elizabeth
E
D000328:Adult; D003110:Colonic Neoplasms; D004032:Diet; D005190:Family; D005195:Family Relations; D005260:Female; D006801:Humans; D007407:Interviews as Topic; D008297:Male; D008875:Middle Aged; D012944:Social Support