Promoting Physical Activity to Cancer Survivors in Practice: Challenges and Solutions for Implementation

Objectives: This study explored the challenges and solutions to the effective promotion of physical activity (PA) to cancer survivors in practice in Ireland amongst a variety of stakeholders, including healthcare professionals (HCPs), policy makers, community providers of cancer care, and academics. Methods: Focus groups (n = 5) were conducted with participants (n = 40), including oncologists, oncology nurses, physiotherapists, cancer support centre managers, academics, consumers, cancer policy representatives, exercise specialists, community providers of exercise programmes, and a chartered psychologist. The data were analysed using reflexive thematic analysis. Results: Four primary themes were identified: (i) embedding PA into the cancer pathway (including the sub-themes of ‘singing from the same hymn sheet’, ‘PA as an essential element of treatment’, and ‘intervention opportunities and models of care’); (ii) education and training; (iii) access to appropriate PA interventions; and (iv) tailored programmes. Conclusions: The importance of embedding PA into the cancer pathway such that PA is viewed by clinicians and patients as a key part of their treatment was emphasised. Opportunities for PA intervention within existing practice were highlighted, such as the chemotherapy education sessions run by Daffodil nurses. Findings pointed to a need for education and training for HCPs that include how to coach and counsel cancer patients concerning PA in clinic. Finally, a major barrier to PA promotion was limited access to appropriate PA interventions.