Development of an Exercise Programme Alongside Medical Treatment for Cancer Patients: Implementation and Acceptance

Abstract

Background: Due to the positive effect on the treatment of cancer patients, physical activity schemes should be implemented alongside hospital care. The level of demand for "treatment-associated sports schemes" has been examined in an implementation and acceptance study. Following questions were investigated: 1. How should offers and communication be designed? 2. Which barriers do the patients face? 3. What are patients’ opinions and how high is the readiness to participate? Method: A questionnaire was used to collect data, specifying personal details, medical history, physical activity, attitude towards an exercise programme, readiness to participate, social support and structural conditions of an exercise programme. The survey was conducted at an oncology clinic, 120 patients took part in answering the questionnaire. Findings: Above all, patients desire an exercise programme with participants of a similar age. Women would prefer to be in exclusively female groups. Longer journeys (> 2 km), rather than physical fitness, prevent patients from participating, but a positive attitude increases the willingness to travel a further distance. Discussion: The implementation of concomitant therapy for physical activity is generally welcomed. To overcome barriers, a strengthening of the personal resources and the improvement of structural conditions ought to be considered.