Cancer survivors’ interests and preferences for muscle-strengthening activity interventions

Abstract Purpose Muscle-strengthening activities (MSA) are associated with improved health outcomes in cancer survivors. Yet, less than 20% of cancer survivors report meeting MSA guidelines (i.e., full body MSA ≥ 2 times/week). Technology-supported MSA interventions may enhance adherence to activity guidelines. This study examined cancer survivors’ interests and preferences for MSA interventions. Methods Post-treatment cancer survivors [ N = 556; Mage = 56.5(SD = 14.7); 53.6% female; 49.3% met MSA guidelines] within 5 years of diagnosis completed questionnaires to assess MSA participation and interests, and preferences for MSA interventions. A subset ( n = 30; 50% met MSA guidelines) was randomly selected to complete a semi-structured interview. Quantitative data were analyzed using descriptive statistics. Interviews were recorded, transcribed, and analyzed using an iterative thematic content analysis approach and consensus review. Results Participants indicated they would be interested in participating in a MSA (67.6%) intervention tailored to cancer survivors, but preferences varied across potential features. Five themes captured participant preferences from interview data: (1) Participants believe MSA interventions could be useful for improving health and physical functioning; (2) Many multi-level barriers and facilitators to MSA participation exist; (3) Prior experience with MSA guided current intervention preferences; (4) Desire for support and accountability; (5) Need for convenient, flexible interventions with varied preferences for delivery modality, structure, and personalization. Conclusions Cancer survivors are interested in MSA interventions, but preferences for intervention features vary. Results from this study can help inform future MSA intervention development to create acceptable, feasible, and effective programs.