Examining Demographic Predictors Of Resistance Exercise Dropout In Individuals Treated For Cancer

INTRODUCTION: Resistance exercise is being increasingly recognized as an important component of cancer care, offering benefits such as improved physical function, strength and quality of life. Despite these advantages, resistance exercise participation and maintenance amongst individuals treated for cancer varies widely, influenced by factors such as age, gender, socioeconomic status, cancer type, and treatment history. The purpose of this study was to examine predictors of dropouts in individuals treated for cancer engaging in a resistance exercise program. METHODS: A total of 118 adults (≥18 years old) previously treated for cancer (12 men, 106 women; mean age 60.9 ± 10.6 years; BMI 31.34 ± 9.0) were recruited to participate in a structured resistance exercise program conducted twice weekly. Self-reported demographic variables (age, sex, race, education level, income) and medical characteristics (comorbidities, time since diagnosis, cancer type and stage, active treatment status, and treatment type) were recorded at baseline. Dropout was defined as withdrawal from the program for any reason before the 8-week follow-up assessment. Statistical analyses, including logistic regressions, were conducted to identify significant predictors of dropout using RStudio. RESULTS: The overall dropout rate was 21% (n = 0.212) at the 8-week assessment. Among all variables examined, lower educational attainment was the only significant predictor of dropout; participants without a bachelor’s degree were more likely to drop out compared to those with at least a 4-year degree (p = 0.027; OR = 2.84, 95% CI = 1.14, 7.44). Other demographic and medical factors, such as age, BMI, cancer type, and time since diagnosis, were not significantly associated with dropout. CONCLUSION: Educational attainment was significantly associated with dropout from an 8-week resistance exercise program, with individuals without a bachelor’s degree at higher risk of discontinuing. Our findings provide new information about potential risk factors of dropout in resistance programs for individuals with cancer.