Benefits and Barriers of Cancer Practitioners Discussing Physical Activity with their Cancer Patients.
Our aim was to synthesise the existing empirical literature and theoretical perspectives on the physical activity (PA) promotion practices and determinants of cancer clinicians and health professionals. We conducted a narrative review of theory and evidence to develop practice recommendations for improving the promotion of PA to cancer patients. Surveyed health professionals were aware of many benefits of PA for their cancer patients, although only ~40 % promoted PA to selected cancer patients. Walking was the most commonly promoted form of PA, with this promoted to assist patients control their weight and cardiovascular health risk. Barriers to promotion of PA included lack of time and knowledge of PA and behaviour change skills. Health professionals appear interested in promoting PA to their cancer patients, yet encounter several barriers. Further research is warranted to assist health professionals improve their PA promotion. An adapted reflective-impulsive model of social behaviour shows promise for assisting health professionals overcome barriers and provides an evidence-based theoretical framework for improving communication with patients. Universities, hospitals and/or health-care accreditation organisations also have important roles to play in assisting health professionals improve their promotion of PA to patients.
Faculty of Health Sciences and Medicine, Bond University, Robina, QLD, 4229, Australia. jkeogh@bond.edu.au.|Human Potential Centre, AUT University, Auckland, New Zealand. jkeogh@bond.edu.au.|Cluster for Health Improvement, Faculty of Science, Health, Education and Engineering, University of the Sunshine Coast, Sippy Downs, Australia. jkeogh@bond.edu.au.
Justin W L
JW
Keogh
Faculty of Health Sciences and Medicine, Bond University, Robina, QLD, 4229, Australia.
Alicia
A
Olsen
Exercise, Health and Performance Faculty Research Group, University of Sydney, Sydney, Australia.
Michael
M
Climstein
Faculty of Health Sciences and Medicine, Bond University, Robina, QLD, 4229, Australia.
Sally
S
Sargeant
School of Physical Education, Sport and Exercise Sciences, University of Otago, Dunedin, New Zealand.
Lynnette
L
Jones
D003376:Counseling; D003695:Delivery of Health Care; D015444:Exercise; D006282:Health Personnel / Q000523:psychology*; D006293:Health Promotion; D006801:Humans; D008495:Medical Oncology
Cancer; Counselling; Exercise; Oncology; Physical activity