Attitudes, beliefs and preferences surrounding home-based exercise programs in endometrial cancer patients receiving treatment

Background: Despite recommendations, exercise participation among endometrial cancer survivors remains low. Previous interventions focused on weight loss or in-person programs with limited reach. Regular exercise, regardless of weight change, reduces mortality risk and improves functionality. Home-based programs could address participation barriers. We conducted a qualitative study with inactive survivors to identify key factors for future home-based exercise programs.

Methods: Semi-structured interviews were conducted with ten on-treatment endometrial cancer survivors who reported low physical activity levels. Interviews, conducted via Zoom or telephone, were recorded with consent. Transcripts were coded using MAXQDA to identify attitudes, knowledge, barriers, interests, and preferences regarding home-based exercise programs.

Results: The interviews yielded four major themes, the first being the understanding survivors have of what exercise is and the perceived benefits of exercise. Second, participants were acutely aware of the barriers to exercise which included: health issues, treatment-related concerns, access to resources, limited strength, lack of support, and past negative experiences. The third theme focused on motivational factors to exercise including guidance, support systems, access to resources including technology, and a desire to be healthy as motivators towards changing exercise behaviors. Finally, participants expressed interest in exercise that incorporated fun with low impact and accessibility. Interestingly, all the participants preferred home-based exercise programs. The role of the provider/oncologist was often identified as central to the discussion or suggestion of exercise in our sample.

Conclusions: Understanding patient needs and preferences is crucial for creating accessible and sustainable exercise programs for endometrial cancer survivors. Our study guides the development of future home-based exercise programs for this population.