[Debbie L.]

I've been thinking about this a lot lately, in relation to breast cancer mostly but also just in general. We (the big societal "we") have a lot of information about how activity, normal weight, and a reasonable diet can improve our lives, and our health (and with so few side effects!). Increasingly over the past few years, there is more information about fewer breast cancer recurrences in active people. I will quibble that I don't think we have ANY idea exactly how much activity might be the "right" amount. But still, getting moving is an excellent thing.

Yet even though people know this, there is not much change happening. Obesity, just for one example, is an epidemic in our country. No one sets out to become obese, certainly. Many obese people struggle to change their eating behaviors, and research has shown that while almost everyone is capable of weight loss -- keeping it off is extremely difficult (and rare).

The other aspect that concerns me is that for people who are aware of the various recommendations about exercise and avoiding obesity, and would like to follow them but are unable (for whatever reason) to do so -- there is guilt, shame, and discouragement. Lots of it. Just ask a smoker with lung cancer how difficult it is to deal with that judgement, both personal self-judgment and that of others.

So is there a better way to deliver these lifestyle messages? A way that might better motivate and encourage people? A way that is less guilt-producing, shaming, and discouraging? I don't know the answers to these questions but I'm beginning to wonder if we shouldn't put some of these research dollars to work to see if we can deliver the messages in ways that are more likely to produce change.

I have seen studies where the intervention studied is the formal exercise class or education series. But I don't know that people need some certain exercise class. It's not that complicated. It can be as simple as a walk around the block or some stretching on the bedroom floor. I think what people need is simply more encouragement to get moving at whatever level works for them. If we make it seem too complicated (special classes, etc), then it's less sustainable. Your thoughts?

Debbie Laxague