Physical Activity, Locus of Control, and Fear of Recurrence Among Cancer Survivors from a Community-Based Cancer Support Program

Abstract

With medical and psychosocial advances in treatment, cancer survivorship has increased, yet fear of cancer recurrence is a main concern negatively affecting the quality of life among cancer survivors. This pilot study examined the relationship between physical activity, locus of control (LOC), and fear of cancer recurrence among participants in a community cancer support program. Self-reported interviews were used to examine if physical activity and LOC have a modifying effect on the negative impact of fear of recurrence among a group of cancer survivors (N = 32). The variables were measured using the fear of cancer recurrence inventory (FCRI), metabolic equivalency tasks (METs), and Rotter’s locus of control questionnaire. The results indicated that higher education levels and higher internal LOC lead to better coping, and thus having a modifying impact on the fear of recurrence. For those undergoing surgery less physical impairment was observed, thereby effecting and lessening the fear of recurrence. Implications for clinical practice and further research are discussed. It becomes important for oncology clinicians and family members to further encourage participation in physical activities among cancer survivors as a means of buffering and lessening the fear of cancer recurrence and thus contributing to better quality of life.