A distance-based, randomized controlled trial for reducing sedentary behavior among prostate cancer survivors: a...

Area of Science:

• Oncology
• Behavioral Science
• Public Health

Background:

• Prostate cancer survivors (PCS) often experience long-term side effects like fatigue and depression.
• High sedentary behavior (SB) is linked to chronic disease risk and reduced quality of life (QoL) in PCS.
• Distance-based interventions are needed to overcome barriers to supportive care for PCS.

Purpose of the Study:

• To determine the effect of a 12-week Fitbit and behavioral counseling intervention on reducing SB in PCS.
• To assess secondary outcomes including light-intensity physical activity (PA), QoL, motivation, and patient satisfaction.
• To evaluate a distance-based approach for behavior change in cancer survivorship care.

Main Methods:

• A two-armed randomized controlled trial recruiting inactive PCS (stage I-IV) across Canada.
• Intervention group (n=60): Fitbit + 6 behavioral support sessions to increase daily steps.
• Control group (n=60): Fitbit + public health PA resources. Primary outcome: SB measured by activPAL inclinometers.

Main Results:

• The study aims to measure changes in SB, light-intensity PA, QoL, and motivational outcomes.
• Data collection points include baseline, post-intervention, and 6-month follow-up.
• Objective and self-report measures will be used to assess outcomes.

Conclusions:

• Reducing SB and increasing light-intensity PA are crucial for PCS well-being.
• The study will establish a scalable, distance-based platform for supportive care.
• This intervention has the potential to improve health outcomes for PCS through accessible tools.