Abstract
ObjectivesLow exercise adherence is common amongst breast cancer (BC) patients. This study aimed to understand BC patients exercise identity and fears of exercise to identify barriers to exercise participation. MethodsWomen (18 years plus) currently undergoing, or completed (in remission), chemotherapy for BC, and women (18 years plus) with no cancer history completed three validated questionnaires: Exercise Identity Scale (EI), Exercise Fear Avoidance Scale (EFAS) and Fear of Physical Activity/Exercise Scale – Breast Cancer. Results86 women were included (BC: n = 51 – non-cancer: n = 35). There were no significant differences between groups when comparing overall EI (p = 0.240; d=0.127) and EFAS (p = 0.060; d=0.203) scores. BC reported significantly higher scores on specific questions related to fear during exercise (EFAS 2,3, and 5; p = <0.005). Associations were observed between EI and EFAS questionnaire scores in BC (r = −0.342; p = 0.014), and EI scores and exercise levels in both groups (BC, r = 0.527; p = <0.001; non-cancer, r = 0.639; p = <0.001). ConclusionResults suggest women with BC may have specific concerns and fears of exercise compared to age-matched controls. Education may mitigate fears, increase exercise identity, and promote exercise uptake. Practical implicationsEducation provided by clinicians at BC diagnosis regarding the benefits and safety of exercise may help mitigate fear and promote exercise identity.
Talk to us
Join us for a 30 min session where you can share your feedback and ask us any queries you have
Disclaimer: All third-party content on this website/platform is and will remain the property of their respective owners and is provided on "as is" basis without any warranties, express or implied. Use of third-party content does not indicate any affiliation, sponsorship with or endorsement by them. Any references to third-party content is to identify the corresponding services and shall be considered fair use under The CopyrightLaw.