Exploring lived experience of sedentary behavior during cancer treatment - a phenomenological study

Oral Presentation B7.3

Authors

  • Anna Henriksson Mälardalen University
  • Magnus Elfström Mälardalen University
  • Anne Söderlund Mälardalen University
  • Karin Nordin Uppsala University
  • Petra Heideken Wågert Mälardalen University

DOI:

https://doi.org/10.14288/hfjc.v14i3.532

Keywords:

COVID-19, Experience, Oncology, Phenomenology, Sedentary Behaviour

Abstract

Background: Sedentary behavior (SB) increases during cancer treatment, which may have deteriorating effects on long-term health. Few studies exploring patients' experience of SB during neo- or adjuvant cancer treatment have been conducted, and this information may be crucial in developing effective support for patients to reduce SB. Purpose: To explore the lived experiences of SB in patients undergoing neo- or adjuvant cancer treatment and to explore the impact of the COVID-19 pandemic. Methods: Individual interviews were conducted with patients undergoing treatment for breast, prostate and colorectal cancer recruited from the oncological department of a university hospital in Sweden. Interviews were analyzed phenomenologically and results presented as descriptions of the phenomenon SB. Results: Preliminary results are that patients describe SB by depicting physical activity and awareness of its health benefits. Also, being inactive or sedentary is stigmatized. The type and phase of treatment, life circumstances (COVID-19 pandemic, sick leave) as well as motivation, social support, and self-image can impact SB during treatment. Conclusions: The results indicate that SB is difficult for patients to discern. This suggests that SB is an unimplemented concept in the cancer context and needs to be addressed in a way that does not stigmatize patients. The COVID-19 pandemic had both negative and positive impacts on SB for these patients. Furthermore, developing support that targets periods with more side-effects and helping patients reduce SB throughout changed life circumstances may be helpful. Funding: The Swedish cancer society.

Published

2021-09-30

How to Cite

Henriksson, A., Elfström, M., Söderlund, A., Nordin, K., & Heideken Wågert, P. (2021). Exploring lived experience of sedentary behavior during cancer treatment - a phenomenological study: Oral Presentation B7.3. The Health & Fitness Journal of Canada, 14(3). https://doi.org/10.14288/hfjc.v14i3.532