Journal article
Exploring Physical Activity Levels, Barriers, and Education Sources in People with Cancer Undergoing Chemotherapy
Cancers, Vol.17(18), pp.1-16
12/09/2025
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Source: InCites
Abstract
Purpose: Physical activity (PA) during chemotherapy can lessen side effects, support treatment adherence, and improve overall outcomes, yet the barriers to PA in this population remain underexplored. This study assessed self-reported PA levels, barriers, and sources of PA education among adults with cancer undergoing chemotherapy.
Methods: A cross-sectional survey was conducted among adult outpatients receiving chemotherapy in the ACT, Australia. The survey collected demographic information, PA levels using the modified Godin–Shephard Leisure Time Questionnaire, barriers to PA, and sources of PA education. Both quantitative and qualitative analyses were performed.
Results: Of 111 participants (mean age 59.2), only 11.7% met 'active' PA status and 9.9% met resistance exercise guidelines. Barriers included fatigue, strength, pain, motivation, nausea, and lack of time. Notably, almost one-third received no PA education during chemotherapy, and nearly half wanted more. Education by accredited exercise physiologists increased resistance exercise participation.
Conclusions: Few participants met PA recommendations during chemotherapy, with many reporting insufficient PA education and significant barriers. These findings highlight critical gaps in patient care and education. Addressing these through integrated, evidence-based PA programs and policy changes could enhance patient health, improve outcomes, and reduce disparities in supportive cancer care.
Details
- Title
- Exploring Physical Activity Levels, Barriers, and Education Sources in People with Cancer Undergoing Chemotherapy
- Creators
- Rebecca Cesnik - ACT GovernmentKellie Toohey - University of CanberraNicole Freene - University of CanberraStuart Semple - University of Canberra
- Publication Details
- Cancers, Vol.17(18), pp.1-16
- Publisher
- MDPI AG; BASEL
- Grant note
- Australian Government Research Training Program (RTP) Scholarship
This research was supported by an Australian Government Research Training Program (RTP) Scholarship https://doi.org/10.82133/C42F-K220 for Rebecca Cesnik.
- Identifiers
- 991013313627202368
- Copyright
- © 2025 by the authors
- Academic Unit
- Human Sciences; Faculty of Health
- Language
- English
- Resource Type
- Journal article