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Cancer and physical activity: facilitating counseling
Alejandro Gómez-Bruton1,2, José Manuel Granada-López3,4,5, Elena Aguirre6
1EXER-GENUD (Growth, Exercise, Nutrition and Development) Research Group, Faculty of Health and Sport Sciences, Department of Physiatry and Nursing, University of Zaragoza, Huesca, Spain. bruton@unizar.es.
Only 27.6% of cancer survivors meet physical activity (PA) guidelines, often due to healthcare professionals' (HCP) limited knowledge on exercise referrals. This commentary addresses HCP challenges and offers solutions for better exercise prescription for cancer survivors.
Area of Science:
- Oncology
- Exercise Science
- Public Health
Background:
- Physical activity (PA) is crucial for cancer survivor recovery and well-being.
- Current PA guideline adherence among cancer survivors remains low (27.6%).
- Healthcare professionals (HCP) face knowledge gaps regarding exercise referral for cancer patients.
Purpose of the Study:
- To highlight the challenges HCP encounter when prescribing exercise for cancer survivors.
- To propose actionable solutions to improve exercise prescription practices.
- To enhance PA guideline adherence in the cancer survivor population.
Main Methods:
- Commentary based on existing literature and clinical experience.
- Analysis of barriers faced by HCP in exercise referral.
- Development of practical recommendations for HCP.
Main Results:
- HCP knowledge deficits concerning timing, methodology, and suitability of exercise referrals are significant barriers.
- Lack of clear referral pathways and resources hinders effective exercise prescription.
- A need exists for enhanced education and support systems for HCP.
Conclusions:
- Addressing HCP knowledge gaps is essential to increase PA in cancer survivors.
- Implementing standardized protocols and accessible resources can facilitate exercise prescription.
- Improved HCP confidence and competence in exercise referral will benefit cancer survivor outcomes.
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