Physical Activity And Social Media Preferences In Adolescent And Young Adult Cancer Survivors

Abstract

Cancer survivors have unique physical and psychological experiences that may affect their physical activity (PA) preferences and other health choices. While many factors influence regular PA for cancer survivors, determining the preferences of adolescent and young adult (AYA) cancer survivors may promote participation and adherence to PA programs and resources. PURPOSE: To determine the use of social media for PA-related activities METHODS: Participants from a larger study that aimed to increase physical activity in AYA cancer survivors (n = 16) completed an online survey. Items included age, education, social media platform preference and usage, and PA preference (i.e., type, frequency, support, reminders, trackers, goals). RESULTS: Participants’, (mean age 26.6 + 6.5 y) weekly self-reported PA varied - n = 3 (18.8%) reported 0 days, n = 6 (37.6%) reported 1-2 days, n = 6 (37.6%) reported 3-4 days, and n = 1 (5.9%) reported 5 days. Education attainment included (n = 3, 17.6%) high school, (n = 4, 23.5%) some college, (n = 5, 29.4%) Bachelor’s degree, and (n = 1, 5.9%) trade/technical/vocational school or an Associate, Master’s, Professional or Doctoral degree. Most preferred PA alone rather than with a group (n = 11, 68.8%). Over half preferred being held accountable for reaching their wellness goals (n = 10, 62.5%) and 13 (81.3%) preferred wearing a fitness tracker to monitor PA. Eight (50.0%) wanted PA reminders on their phone. Eight (50.0%) reported that their body image was negatively affected by cancer and treatment. Twelve (75.1%) reported the goal of PA participation was weight loss, and 81.3% reported the goal was to feel confident in their body. Of the regular users of social media, n = 13, 81.3% reported daily use of platforms including Facebook, Instagram, Snapchat, TikTok, and Twitter. More Likert Scale respondents reported social media was not a source of motivation for wellness goals: Disagree, n = 8, 50.0%; Neutral, n = 4, 25.0%; Agree, n = 4, 25.0%. CONCLUSION: Results from this study may be beneficial for future AYA cancer survivors PA programs. Individualized PA programs, using a fitness tracker and coach to connect survivors may help address the diverse needs of this population.