Predictors of sedentary behavior among colorectal survivors

Colorectal cancer (CRC) survivors spend approximately 9 h per day in sedentary behavior (SED), despite recommendations to reduce sitting time. The purpose of this study was to examine predictors of SED among CRC survivors over a 1-year duration.

Male and female CRC survivors (< 5 years since diagnosis) participated in a 12-week moderate-to-vigorous physical activity randomized controlled trial. To measure SED, participants were given a CSA monitor to wear for three consecutive days (including one weekend day). Additionally, fitness (Treadmill walk test), body composition (bioelectrical impedance analysis) and questionnaires (Profile of Mood States, Exercise Processes of Change and Self-Efficacy for Exercise) were administered. Follow-up assessments were completed at a 3-month, 6-month, and 12-month follow-up.

Forty-six colorectal survivors (average age = 57.3 ± 9.7 years) completed the 12-month study. Using latent class models, four classes of SED behavior over time were identified: class 1 (high and sustained SED over time), class 2 (low and sustain SED over time), class 3 (increasing SED over time), and class 4 (high SED through 6-months, followed be a marked decrease at 12-months). Males were more likely to be in class 1, while majority of females were in class 3. Those CRC survivors with a better mood at baseline were in class 2, while those with poor fitness, high body fat, and higher cognitive processes at baseline were in class 3.

Identifying the characteristics of survivors who engage in high SED can help healthcare providers to target their efforts to reduce SED.