Implementing physical activity for individuals with cancer during treatment: protocol for the IMPACT...

Area of Science:

• Oncology
• Exercise Science
• Implementation Science

Background:

• Cancer prevalence is rising in Canada, leading to long-term side effects for survivors.
• Physical activity (PA) offers significant benefits for cancer patients, but its clinical implementation remains a challenge.
• This study builds on prior research to address the gap in integrating PA into cancer care.

Purpose of the Study:

• To evaluate the effectiveness of a novel implementation strategy for PA and self-management in cancer patients.
• To compare a combined exercise and self-management intervention against self-management alone and usual care.
• To assess the feasibility and impact of integrating PA services within cancer treatment settings.

Main Methods:

• A hybrid implementation-effectiveness randomized controlled trial (RCT) conducted across five Ontario cancer centers.
• 129 adult cancer patients randomized into three groups: exercise with self-management, self-management alone, or usual care.
• Outcomes measured using the Reach, Effectiveness, Adoption, Implementation, and Maintenance (RE-AIM) framework, with primary effectiveness focused on self-reported PA levels post-intervention.

Main Results:

• The primary effectiveness outcome is the change in self-reported physical activity levels post-intervention.
• Implementation outcomes will be assessed using the RE-AIM framework.
• Data will be collected at baseline, post-intervention, and at 6- and 12-month follow-ups.

Conclusions:

• This trial aims to inform the provision of PA services within Canadian cancer institutions.
• Results will guide decision-making for incorporating evidence-based exercise into routine cancer care.
• Findings will contribute to improving the long-term well-being of cancer survivors through enhanced clinical implementation of PA.