Promoting Team-Based Exercise Among African American Breast Cancer Survivors

Authors

Linda B. Piacentine, Marquette UniversityFollow
Karen Marie Robinson, Marquette UniversityFollow
Leslie J. Waltke, Aurora Health Care
Judy A. Tjoe, Aurora Health CareFollow
Alexander V. Ng, Marquette UniversityFollow

Document Type

Article

Language

eng

Publication Date

12-1-2018

Publisher

SAGE Publications

Source Publication

Western Journal of Nursing Research

Source ISSN

0193-9459

Abstract

Physical activity benefits the health and well-being of breast cancer survivors (BCS). Yet, many African American survivors do not routinely exercise and have increased risk of poor outcomes. The purpose of this mixed-method study was to identify motivational factors compelling African American BCS to participate in a 14-week team walking program and to intend to continue exercise after the intervention concluded. Focus groups were held with participants (n = 12) before and after training. Content analysis discovered themes before the intervention: Not wanting to go at it alone, exercise not a life or treatment priority, cancer treatment affected activity, advocates to exercise, and can exercise really help? Four themes postintervention themes included: In the same boat, changed mind-set, improved weight and activity, and overcoming barriers. Physical data verified improvements. Results suggest that a team-based exercise training program may assist in overcoming a sedentary behavior tendency and subsequently improve health among survivors.

Comments

Accepted version. Western Journal of Nursing Research, Vol. 40, No. 12 (December 1, 2018): 1885-1902. DOI. © 2018 SAGE Publications. Used with permission.

Recommended Citation

Piacentine, Linda B.; Robinson, Karen Marie; Waltke, Leslie J.; Tjoe, Judy A.; and Ng, Alexander V., "Promoting Team-Based Exercise Among African American Breast Cancer Survivors" (2018). College of Nursing Faculty Research and Publications. 597.
https://epublications.marquette.edu/nursing_fac/597