Implementing health promotion interventions in a pediatric oncology setting: A qualitative study among families impacted by cancer and healthcare professionals

One way to prevent or minimize adverse effects from pediatric cancer is to adopt and maintain healthy behaviours. However, there is limited knowledge on how to successfully implement health promotion (HP) interventions in clinical settings. This study aimed to determine the factors affecting the participation in and implementation of an HP program from the perspective of adolescents impacted by cancer, parents of children or adolescents impacted by cancer, and healthcare professionals (HCPs). We conducted semi-structured interviews with adolescents and parents, and focus groups with HCPs. Data were analysed using thematic analysis. A total of five adolescents, nine parents, and eleven HCPs were interviewed. Three major themes were determined: (1) facilitators to participation and implementation, (2) barriers to participation and implementation, and (3) suggestions for improvement. Factors identified as keys to participation include tailoring interventions to families' specific needs and social support. Organizational barriers, health issues, and a lack of interest or need hampered participation in the program. Implementation was positively impacted by the interventions' perceived relevance and negatively by their lack of integration in clinical care. While HP interventions hold promise for improving quality of life, successful implementation requires addressing the multifaceted challenges faced by participants and providers.