Investigating the feasibility of a supervised, personalised exercise programme, during the first 12-months of primary treatment, for people with early stage breast or colon cancer, in a Christchurch, New Zealand clinical setting.
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Introduction Despite extensive evidence supporting the benefits of exercise for individuals undergoing cancer treatment and people living with and beyond cancer, exercise programmes are not currently provided at Christchurch Hospital. This study aimed to explore the feasibility of introducing a 12-week individualised exercise programme for individuals with early-stage breast or colon cancer in Christchurch, New Zealand.
Methods A multi-method study assessed the feasibility of the 12-week supervised exercise intervention for people with early-stage breast or colon cancer. Feasibility was evaluated through process feasibility (recruitment, compliance, and adherence) and scientific feasibility (safety, description of dose response, and acceptability). Participants' feedback and field diary notes were analysed qualitatively.
Results Process feasibility was established with a recruitment rate of 45%, compliance rate of 79%, and adherence rate of 89%. Scientific feasibility was supported by no serious adverse events and adherence to exercise guidelines. Participants reported benefits in emotional and physical health, along with programme acceptance and insights for programme improvement.
Discussion The supervised and personalised exercise programme was feasible and accepted by participants, despite challenges posed by the COVID-19 pandemic. Recommendations include a community-based setting and a combined-exercise approach supported by an interdisciplinary team.
Conclusions This study demonstrated feasibility for a 12-week exercise intervention for individuals with early-stage breast and colorectal cancer in Christchurch, New Zealand. A proposed interdisciplinary communitybased exercise programme would offer continued support and health benefits for people with cancer.