Tell us Your Food Story

In 2017, it is estimated that 318,590 Americans, men and women, will be diagnosed with breast cancer (American Cancer Society, 13). It was predicted in the 1970s that 1 in 11 Americans would be diagnosed with breast cancer, currently, it is 1 in 8 people. A person is twice as likely to be diagnosed with breast cancer if they have one first-degree female with a diagnosis, 3-4 times if there is more than one first-degree female relative with a diagnosis. Reasons for this increase in breast cancer diagnoses are that people are living longer, changes in reproductive patterns, increases or decreases in menopausal hormone use, increased numbers of detection through screening including genetic testing, and the rising prevalence of obesity (American Cancer Society). The purpose of this study is to better understand how a diagnosis of breast cancer supports change in diet and their food story. Qualitative methodology and specifically the long interview is the method the team will use to gain insight into adult patients' perceptions of their food story.