A Group-Based, Videoconference-Delivered Physical Activity Program for Cancer Survivors

Abstract

Introduction/PurposeVirtually supervised, group-based exercise presents an innovative way to expand the reach of exercise-oncology programs and help cancer survivors increase physical activity (PA) and connect with other participants. This study examined the feasibility, acceptability, and preliminary effects of a group-based PA program delivered exclusively using videoconferencing software.MethodsThis study used a single-group pre–post design. The 8-wk program consisted of aerobic and resistance exercise sessions once per week and three PA behavior change discussion sessions in groups of four to six. Feasibility was determined by enrollment, retention, safety, and adherence. Postprogram surveys evaluated acceptability using a Likert scale and open-ended responses. Changes in PA (Godin Leisure-Time Exercise Questionnaire), quality of life (QOL; Functional Assessment of Cancer Therapy—General), and upper and lower body muscular endurance (bicep curl and sit-to-stand test) were also evaluated.ResultsEnrollment was feasible (n = 61 of 65 who expressed interest in the program), and retention (86.9%) and adherence (88% for exercise, 91% for discussion) were high; no adverse events were reported. Participants (mean age, 59.9 ± 10.1 yr; 96.2% female; 64.2% ovarian cancer, 28.3% breast cancer, 7.5% other cancer) reported they enjoyed the program (median, 7 of 7), and videoconferencing software was easy to use and had good video and audio quality (median, 5 of 5). From preprogram to postprogram, participants increased their weekly minutes of aerobic (mean (SD) change, 82.4 (144.2)) and resistance (mean (SD) change, 31.9 (42.7)) PA; sit-to-stand (mean (SD) change, 1.4 (3.9)) and bicep curl (mean (SD) change, 5.3 (6.8)) repetitions; and emotional (mean (SD) change, 0.82 (2.3) points), functional (mean (SD) change, 1.2 (3.6) points), and total QOL (mean (SD) change, 3 (7.9) points; all P < 0.05).ConclusionsA group-based PA program delivered using videoconference technology is feasible and acceptable for cancer survivors, and may increase PA and improve physical fitness and some aspects of QOL. A larger, controlled intervention is needed to determine efficacy, as well as pragmatic studies to directly compare this approach with conventional strategies (i.e., face-to-face programs).

Scoping Review of Videoconference Online Exercise Programs for Cancer Survivors in Community Settings

“…Other types of exercises included Tai Chi (42), Pilates (38,42,43), Zumba (40,41), and balance (34,35,41,42). Most programs ( n = 10, 66.7%) offered supplemental components in addition to VOE, including PA behavior change discussion sessions (22), wellness workshops (35,36,40), meditation (36,42,43), chronic disease workshops (35,36,38,40,41,43), support groups (36,38–42), and nutritional programs (38,41,43). Details about additional program components are described in Table 2.…”

“…All programs included cancer survivors at any stage of the cancer journey (i.e., no exclusions were made based on treatment status), and two programs reported the treatment statuses of participants, with 51.2% receiving chemotherapy during the program (22,30). Age and sex were reported by four programs (mean age, 54.2 ± 10.0 yr; 85.3% ± 20.0% female) (17,22,31,32). Sociodemographic information was reported by four programs, with participants predominantly being White (92.1% ± 5.2%) and highly educated (80.2% ± 9.1% had more than a college degree) (17,22,31,32).…”

“…Four programs reported participant fees (22,33,34,44), which were $120 ± $50 (range, $110-$175), with the remainder (n = 12, 75.0%) reporting no cost to participants. Three programs identified funders but did not specify the amount of funds contributions (17,22,31).…”

“…Retention (from before to after the program) was reported by four programs, with an average retention rate of 83.1% ± 7.4% (8,17,22,31). Four programs reported reasons for not completing the program, including changes in treatments and injuries that were not related to the program and/or VOE sessions (17,22,31,32).…”

“…No programs reported maintenance of outcomes after postprogram assessments. As yet, all programs appear that they will continue to be offered indefinitely (i.e., no end dates reported), offered exclusively via VOE (n = 7), or both VOE and in-person (n = 9) (Table 2) (17,22,(30)(31)(32)(33)35,38,39,42).…”