Feasibility and Acceptability of a Peer Training Program to Deliver a Theory-Based Physical Activity Behavior Change Intervention to Inactive People Living With and Beyond Cancer: A Mixed Methods Study

Abstract

Theory-based physical activity (PA) interventions include PA promotion strategies that can be delivered by exercise professionals, friends, family and peers. Peer-delivery presents a valuable opportunity for community implementation. Few peer-led PA interventions for people living with and beyond cancer (LWBC) report the feasibility of their peer mentor training methods. The purpose of this study was to assess the feasibility and acceptability of a peer mentor training program to deliver a behavioural PA intervention to inactive people LWBC using a mixed methods approach. Peer mentors (active people LWBC [≥90 min/week of PA]) participated in an online training program. Weeks 1 to 4 (Phase I) included knowledge and skill development (1-hour online module and 2-hour live workshop weekly). The Assessment phase (Phase II) explored peer mentor readiness (≥80% on a knowledge quiz and ≥3/5 points [Satisfactory] on a mock role play). Feasibility was assessed using enrollment rates, retention rates, adherence, and semi-structured interviews. Acceptability was measured using a satisfaction questionnaire assessing level of agreement with several statements about training program components. Peer mentors (<em>N </em>= 14; M<sub>age</sub> = 65.4 ± 10.7 years) were diagnosed with primarily prostate (57.1%) or breast (21.4%) cancer. Enrollment and retention rates were 73.7% and 92.9%, respectively. Workshops and online modules had 100% and 87.5% adherence rates, respectively. Majority of peer mentors met readiness criteria for the knowledge quiz (92.3%) and mock role play (84.6%) on their first attempt, with 92.3% delivering the follow-up peer-led PA intervention. Peer mentor satisfaction scores ranged from 3.9 to 4.6 out of 5. Interviews generated themes around overall impressions, feedback on timing, structure, and content of the training program and mock role play, and peer mentor preparedness. Structured training for delivering peer-led PA interventions show promise; however, individualized support may be needed for some people LWBC to strengthen mentorship knowledge and skills.