Physical activity and exercise in individuals dealing with cancer in the Free State: A KAP study

Background: Despite therapeutic advances, cancer remains a disease with a huge impact worldwide. Exercise and increased physical activity (PA) not only prevent cancer but also mitigate the effects of the disease and treatment-related complications. No research is currently available regarding the knowledge, attitudes and practices (KAP) of individuals dealing with prostate, breast and colorectal cancer regarding exercise and/or PA in the Free State. Objectives: To describe the KAP of individuals dealing with prostate, breast and colorectal cancer regarding exercise and PA. Method: An observational, descriptive, cross-sectional study, using a self-developed KAP survey for prostate, breast and colorectal cancer patients, was conducted. The research was performed at the Universitas Annex Oncology ward and clinic, and 70 individuals dealing with cancer consented to participate during the data collection period. Results: Most participants knew that heartbeat (79.7%) and breathing (74.3%) increased with exercise. Many participants reported that, on average, they performed exercise two (30.0%) or three times (30.0%) a week at home, with the duration, on average, of 10–20 min per session (43.6%) and less than 10 min (20.5%). Most participants (91.9%) indicated the importance of PA for their health and/or life, while 90.8% liked doing PA regularly. Conclusion: Although individuals dealing with cancer engaged in exercise and/or PA, they did not meet the suggested minimum requirements. Psychological barriers to exercise and/or PA are treatable factors, highlighting the importance of a multidisciplinary approach. Clinical implications: Cancer care should include advice on exercise and/or PA, while the feasibility of exercises and collaborative goal setting should be considered.