eHealth Weight Loss Program in African American Breast Cancer Survivors

PRIMARY OBJECTIVES: I. Determine feasibility of using a free online commercial weight loss program (SparkPeople) in African-American (AA) breast cancer survivors, as measured by: 1) Accrual: percent (%) patients recruited and completing baseline assessments; 2) Study retention: % patients completing 6 month follow-up assessment; 3) Intervention adherence and sustainability (measured at 3, 6, 12 months): a) use of website- number of log-ins, time spent, and use of features such as food diaries, joining teams, posting on message boards (provided by SparkPeople); b) use of Fitbit monitor- % patients who wore the monitor and synced data; c) satisfaction (e.g., ease of use of website, usefulness of content, extra training and support needed) and barriers to participation (e.g., lack of computer access, lack of skills, time, interest, etc.). SECONDARY OBJECTIVES: I. Collect preliminary data on effect sizes of changes in our outcomes and potential mediators associated with the use of the online weight loss program. OUTLINE: Patients are randomized to 1 of 2 groups. All patients receive a handout of their personalized goals for weight loss, diet, and physical activity, with instructions to proceed slowly and as tolerated. Patients also wear a Fitbit monitoring device to monitor physical activity levels daily. GROUP I: Patients receive one 30-minute session with the research assistant for training on how to use the SparkPeople website, and may request additional training if needed. Patients are instructed to self-monitor their diet at least weekly using SparkPeople and physical activity levels daily using the Fitbit monitoring device, which integrates with the SparkPeople program. Patients receive weekly motivational reminders to log into the website for 3 months via email, text, or phone, based on patient preference (active phase). Patients then enter the maintenance phase for an additional 3 months without reminders. GROUP II: Patients receive the weight loss handout and a Fitbit health monitoring device and proceed with their usual life. After 6 months, patients receive the SparkPeople treatment as in Group I.