INNV-29. PATIENT BARRIERS AND PREFERENCES FOR EXERCISE FOLLOWING A BRAIN TUMOR DIAGNOSIS

Abstract BACKGROUND Exercise has shown benefit in patients with cancer, however patients with brain tumors often experience deficits in cognition, motor skills and other symptoms, further exacerbated by treatment, which can make exercise challenging. Yet, the literature supports positive impact of exercise on symptoms and prognosis within this patient population. Our study aims to understand patient’s motivations and preferences for exercise. METHODS We surveyed patients with primary brain tumors within a single, quaternary medical center. Questions were extrapolated from published questionnaires and were accessed through flyers containing a QR code. Questions assessed current practices, attitudes, knowledge, motivating factors and barriers for integrating exercise into treatment. RESULTS Twenty-nine patients completed the survey. Nearly 70% reported that exercise has been important throughout their life in maintaining good health and quality of life. Walking emerged as the predominant mode of physical activity (55%). Thirty-one percent of patients reported the intensity of their current routine was light activity, 24% moderate activity, and 7% vigorous activity.The primary motivators for patients initiating or sustaining an exercise regimen included having someone monitor their progress (28%), complimentary access to a workout facility (21%) and awareness of the beneficial impact of exercise on symptoms and prognosis (51%). The most prevalent physical barriers to exercise included trouble with balance (34%), fatigue (34%) and headaches (21%). Other barriers included lack of transportation (38%), space (21%), cost (21%) and time (14%). Sixty-six percent of patients were more likely to participate in an exercise program if mentioned by their healthcare provider or healthcare team during a visit. CONCLUSION Findings from this study help to expand our understanding of barriers and facilitators to incorporating exercise interventions into brain cancer treatment and can inform the implementation of a structured exercise programs.