Physical activity and exercise behavior of Japanese breast cancer survivors: A nationwide cross-sectional survey

Abstract

Purpose Physical activity after breast cancer diagnosis has been associated with lower mortality rates. However, the physical activity levels of breast cancer survivors in Japan remain unclear. Methods A population-based sampling method was used to select 52 facilities throughout Japan. Thereafter, self-reported questionnaires were distributed to 30 consecutive breast cancer survivors without recurrence or metastasis at each facility. We then determined their background information, physical activity levels using the Global Physical Activity Questionnaire, and potential factors affecting physical activity. Results We ultimately analyzed 791 (77.5%) patients from 34 (65.4%) facilities. Among them, 50.5% satisfied the physical activity recommendations by the American Society of Clinical Oncology/American Cancer Society guidelines, whereas 61.8% were not physically active at all during their leisure time. Moreover, 37.7% engaged in regular exercise, among whom 68.0% satisfied the recommended activity level. Factors associated with satisfying guideline recommendations were higher self-efficacy [odds ratio (OR) per 1 standard deviation (SD) increase, 1.58; 95% CI, 1.29–1.94], stronger perceived social support (OR per 1SD increase, 1.54; 95% CI, 1.26–1.89), lower household annual income (OR, 1.58; 95% CI, 1.07–2.33), experience of any cancer-related symptom relief through physical activity (OR, 1.81; 95% CI, 1.13–2.94), and urban location (OR, 1.50; 95% CI, 1.03–2.20). Conclusions Physical activity levels of breast cancer survivors can be certainly be improved. There is need to encourage physical activity and disseminate appropriate information and support regarding the same throughout Japan, focusing particularly on self-efficacy and social support.