Dataset Information

Exploring cancer survivors' experiences in a group-based walking program before and during the COVID-19 pandemic: a qualitative study.

ABSTRACT:

Purpose

Physical activity (PA) can help reduce side effects related to cancer whilst promoting quality of life. This qualitative study explored cancer survivors' experiences in an 8-week group-based walking program with behavioural support that was delivered within the community to highlight factors central to successful adoption and sustainability of such programs.

Methods

Eleven cancer survivors who took part in the program before (n = 7) or during (n = 4) the COVID-19 pandemic were interviewed and asked to discuss their PA behaviour, motivation to join and complete the program, and experienced benefits and barriers, as well as offer feedback that could be incorporated into future programs. Interview transcripts were thematically analysed using a hybrid deductive-inductive approach.

Results

Participants' experiences were summarised into six themes: (1) PA behaviour and motivation were enhanced, (2) seeking accountability to take steps for better health, (3) mutual support encourages in-group bonding, (4) placing value on building PA confidence, (5) the impact of the COVID-19 pandemic and (6) recommendations for future programs. By receiving social and behavioural support, and thus experiencing increased PA confidence, participants felt the program supported their PA behaviour. However, key differences were evident for participants attending the program during the pandemic.

Conclusions

Exploring strategies that foster a communal focus amongst participants within community-based walking programs may be beneficial. Moreover, findings underscore the value of offering PA programming (walking or otherwise) with behavioural support during a pandemic with appropriate safety measures, though social relationships may not be fully fostered.

SUBMITTER: Price J

PROVIDER: S-EPMC8426160 | biostudies-literature |

REPOSITORIES: biostudies-literature

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Project description:PurposeThis study aimed to evaluate the impact of the COVID-19 pandemic on adolescent and young adult (AYA) cancer survivors.MethodsWe conducted a cross-sectional survey of AYAs aged 18-49 with cancer in Canada between January and February 2021. Data from survivors, defined as AYAs more than one year off cancer treatment, were analysed. Multiple logistic regression was used to identify factors associated with psychological distress, loneliness and insomnia.ResultsThe analysis included 384 survivors. Moderate-to-severe psychological distress was reported by 257 (68.9%) survivors and was associated with an income ≥ $60,000 (adjusted odds ratio [AOR] 2.15, 95% CI 1.11-4.17) and the presence of a pre-existing chronic physical health condition (AOR 2.05, 95% CI 1.18-3.56). Loneliness was reported by 204 (54.0%) survivors and was associated with being unemployed (AOR 2.26 95%CI 1.18-4.31), pandemic causing finances to be worse (AOR 1.82, 95%CI 1.08-3.06) and the presence of a pre-pandemic mental health condition (AOR 1.88, 95% CI 1.03-3.42). Clinical insomnia was reported by 74 (19.5%) survivors and was associated with employment status as a student (AOR 3.00, 95% CI 1.08-8.29) or unemployed (AOR 3.97, 95% CI 1.46-10.83), earning $60,000 or more in the year 2020 (AOR 4.36, 95% CI 1.43-13.32), having haematologic cancer (AOR 2.21, 95% CI 1.05-4.70) and being single (AOR 2.52, 95% CI 1.08-5.91). Pandemic negatively affected employment, finances, physical activity, cancer care and substance use for 73.9%, 66.5%, 32.5%, 21.8% and 19.2% of survivors, respectively. Worries about finances, contracting COVID-19, cancer treatment increasing the risk of COVID-19 infection, and having poor health outcomes from contracting COVID-19 were reported by 46.0%, 45.6%, 55.0% and 47.3% of survivors, respectively.ConclusionsThe COVID-19 pandemic has had a significant impact on AYA cancer survivors, and these individuals report high levels of psychological distress, insomnia and loneliness.Implications for cancer survivorsCancer survivors are at risk for worsening mental and physical health outcomes during the COVID-19 pandemic. Targeted interventions and support programs are urgently needed to support the mental health of AYA cancer survivors and optimize their health outcomes.