Treatment-related and psychosocial variables in explaining physical activity in women three weeks to six months post-treatment of breast cancer

Abstract

ObjectiveThis study examined treatment-related and psychosocial variables in explaining total and leisure time physical activity in breast cancer survivors three weeks to six months post-treatment. MethodsA questionnaire was used to measure total and leisure time physical activity and relevant determinants among 464 breast cancer survivors (aged 18–65 years). ResultsPersonal control was an important overall determinant in explaining physical activity in breast cancer survivors. The impact of treatment-related variables and psychological functioning depended on the working status of the women. Fatigue and poor body image prevented non-working women from being sufficiently physically active. In working women, chemotherapy and arm problems negatively influenced physical activity, whereas therapy side-effects (headaches, hot flashes, feeling unwell) and poor body image positively influenced physical activity. Social support and coping strategies could not explain post-treatment physical activity levels. ConclusionPersonal control, treatment-related variables and psychological functioning influenced physical activity after cancer treatment. Relations depended on the working status of the women. Practice implicationsIncorporating self-control methods in physical activity interventions after breast cancer could be helpful. Furthermore, interventions should be tailored to the experienced symptoms (fatigue, arm-problems, body image) and working status of women.