CULTIVATING QUALITY OF LIFE: ASSESSING DIET, PHYSICAL ACTIVITY, AND MENTAL HEALTH AMONG ARAB-AMERICAN BREAST CANCER SURVIVORS - UNCOVERING BARRIERS AND FACILITATORS FOR HOLISTIC WELL-BEING

Abstract

This dissertation examines the quality of life among Arab-American breast cancer survivors, with a particular emphasis on dietary practices, physical activity, and mental health. Despite increasing survivorship rates in this population, there remains a significant gap in the literature addressing their unique post-treatment experiences and needs. Employing a convergent parallel mixed-methods design, this study integrates quantitative survey data and qualitative narrative interviews to assess adherence to health behavior guidelines and to identify culturally specific barriers and facilitators to well-being. Quantitative findings indicated suboptimal adherence to recommended dietary and physical activity guidelines and highlighted prevalent psychological distress among participants. Thematic analysis of qualitative data revealed that enablers of healthy behaviors included fear of cancer recurrence, strong social support, and pre-existing cultural dietary patterns. Conversely, major barriers encompassed financial constraints, limited access to culturally appropriate resources, treatment-related physical limitations, and sociocultural stigma surrounding mental health. This research provides a nuanced understanding of the complex interplay between cultural, structural, and individual factors influencing survivorship among Arab-American women. The findings underscore the urgent need for culturally tailored, community-engaged public health interventions to improve survivorship outcomes and promote holistic well-being in this underserved population.