Nancy M Gell1,2, Alexandra Tursi3, Kristin W Grover4, Kim Dittus4,5,6. 1. Department of Rehabilitation and Movement Science, University of Vermont, Burlington, VT, USA. nancy.gell@med.uvm.edu. 2. University of Vermont Cancer Center, Burlington, VT, USA. nancy.gell@med.uvm.edu. 3. University of Vermont Medical Center, Burlington, VT, USA. 4. University of Vermont Cancer Center, Burlington, VT, USA. 5. Department of Medicine, University of Vermont Medical Center, Burlington, VT, USA. 6. Larner College of Medicine at the University of Vermont, Burlington, VT, USA.
Abstract
PURPOSE: Physical activity minimizes the side effects of cancer; yet, participation rates among cancer survivors are low. Technological innovations are promoted as efficient means for communication and remote monitoring, but little is known about acceptability among female cancer survivors. The purpose of this study was to examine female cancer survivor perspectives on remote monitoring and communication to support independent, physical activity maintenance after completing a structured, facility-based program. METHODS: Participants were 19 female cancer survivors (mean age 56.3) recruited after completing a 12-week exercise-based oncology rehabilitation program. Semi-structured interviews were conducted with participants following a 4-week pilot trial of a tailored text message, FitBit®, and health coach intervention to support independent physical activity maintenance. All interviews were audio-recorded and transcribed. Transcripts from the interviews were iteratively coded by two team members using a thematic analysis. RESULTS: Participants reported acceptance and satisfaction with remote monitoring and communication. Emergent themes related to technology-based support for physical activity maintenance included the following: (1) accountability to a remote partner; (2) plan Bs, planning for barriers; (3) the habit cycle; (4) convenience through technology; and (5) reclaiming health ownership following a cancer diagnosis. CONCLUSIONS: Participants attributed physical activity maintenance to accountability enabled by technology. Communication based on remote monitoring was perceived as encouraging and not intrusive, during the transition to a home program. IMPLICATIONS FOR CANCER SURVIVORS: This study highlights the importance of accountability and support for physical activity adherence and the positive role that technology can provide for female cancer survivors to regain control of health management.
PURPOSE: Physical activity minimizes the side effects of cancer; yet, participation rates among cancer survivors are low. Technological innovations are promoted as efficient means for communication and remote monitoring, but little is known about acceptability among female cancer survivors. The purpose of this study was to examine female cancer survivor perspectives on remote monitoring and communication to support independent, physical activity maintenance after completing a structured, facility-based program. METHODS:Participants were 19 female cancer survivors (mean age 56.3) recruited after completing a 12-week exercise-based oncology rehabilitation program. Semi-structured interviews were conducted with participants following a 4-week pilot trial of a tailored text message, FitBit®, and health coach intervention to support independent physical activity maintenance. All interviews were audio-recorded and transcribed. Transcripts from the interviews were iteratively coded by two team members using a thematic analysis. RESULTS:Participants reported acceptance and satisfaction with remote monitoring and communication. Emergent themes related to technology-based support for physical activity maintenance included the following: (1) accountability to a remote partner; (2) plan Bs, planning for barriers; (3) the habit cycle; (4) convenience through technology; and (5) reclaiming health ownership following a cancer diagnosis. CONCLUSIONS:Participants attributed physical activity maintenance to accountability enabled by technology. Communication based on remote monitoring was perceived as encouraging and not intrusive, during the transition to a home program. IMPLICATIONS FOR CANCER SURVIVORS: This study highlights the importance of accountability and support for physical activity adherence and the positive role that technology can provide for female cancer survivors to regain control of health management.
Entities:
Keywords:
Cancer survivor; FitBit®; Health coach; Mhealth; Physical activity; SMS; Text message; Wearables
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