The perceived barriers to exercise and physical activity for individuals with metastatic cancer undergoing chemotherapy: a qualitative exploration

Abstract

Over the recent years Exercise and Physical Activity (PA) have demonstrated Quality of Life (QoL) benefits for individuals with metastatic cancer. What is less known are the formal barriers that inhibit participation within this population. This study was a qualitative exploration that investigated the barriers to exercise and PA for individuals with metastatic cancer who were undergoing chemotherapy. The Health Belief Model (HBM) and its constructs (perceived susceptibility, perceived severity, perceived benefits, perceived barriers, cues to action, and self-efficacy) informed this research investigation. The researcher identified 12 subthemes that related to the HBM. Risk of infection in public spaces, fear of falling and age were unique findings. The HBM also proved to be a useful theoretical framework in understanding the barriers to exercise and PA for individuals with metastatic cancer, and should be considered in future research. A larger sample size is also necessary for future research.