Implementing Physical Activity Behavior Change Counseling in an Existing Exercise Program for Cancer Survivors

EMMA McGINNIS
Graduate Student, Colorado State University

Evidence from randomized controlled trials indicates that supervised exercise and behavior change counseling improves long-term physical activity (PA) adherence in cancer survivors. However, translating this work to real-world settings remains a challenge. This study examined the feasibility and acceptability of implementing PA behavior change counseling (PABCC) sessions into an existing cancer-exercise program.

Cancer survivors enrolled in BfitBwell, a 12-week exercise program at the Anschutz Health and Wellness Center.

Participants were randomized to receive (1) the standard BfitBwell program, or (2) BfitBwell plus six evidence-based PABCC sessions. Feasibility was assessed by participant representativeness, process fidelity, and time and cost to deliver the PABCC sessions. Acceptability was based on reasons for declining participation, adherence, and participant satisfaction with the PABCC sessions.

From July 2019- February 2020, N=93 enrolled in the BfitBwell program and N=33 (35.5%) enrolled in the study. Study participants were mostly female (63.6%), diagnosed with breast cancer (39.3%), and an average age of 54.3 &plusmn 12.37 years. There were no differences in age, sex, or cancer diagnosis between those who consented to the study, and participants in the BfitBwell database In the 26 applicable fidelity measures, no items were missed. To date, 42 hours have been spent delivering the PABCC sessions, and costs were printed workbooks ($21.75 per workbook). Reasons for declining to participate in the study were not interested (n=8), not able to guarantee class attendance (n=15), unable to make scheduled class times (n=12), or other (n=19). PABCC participants (n=6) attended M= 5.33&plusmn0.52 PABCC sessions (89% adherence rate). The satisfaction questionnaire has been completed by n=5, and 100% reported they enjoyed the PABCC sessions, most (80%) thought attending PABCC sessions will improve their ability to continue to exercise after BfitBwell, and 100% reported PABCC sessions were an added time burden.

Study participants were representative of BfitBwell participants, and found the PABCC sessions useful, but time intensive. Reasons for declining to participate in the study suggest that alterations in time commitment or intervention modality should be considered for continued implementation of PABCC in BfitBwell. To date n=13 have completed the study, and n=6 are currently enrolled. Data collection will continue through May, 2020.