Evaluating Wall-Mounted Prompts to Facilitate Physical Activity-Related Discussion between Individuals with Cancer and Oncology Health Care Providers: A Pre-post Survey Study

Abstract

Purpose: To evaluate the use of wall-mounted prompts in facilitating physical activity (PA)-related discussions between individuals with cancer and oncology care providers. Methods: Individuals with cancer were approached to participate in a survey-based pre-post study. Half of participants ( n = 100) completed a survey prior to installation of wall-mounted prompts in clinic while the other half ( n = 100) completed a survey following installation of the prompts. Survey questions included content of PA-related discussion, satisfaction with PA education across treatment, and current PA level. The post-prompt survey also asked questions related to the prompt. Survey responses were analyzed using descriptive statistics. Chi-squared tests were performed to determine significance between timepoints. Results: One hundred participants completed the survey at each timepoint. A significant difference was found pre and post-prompt in the number of PA discussions occurring overall during care ( p = 0.03). Some participants (53%) were satisfied with the PA education received during treatment. There was no significant difference in occurrence of PA discussion ( p = 0.36) pre and post-prompt and no difference in PA behaviour was observed ( p = 0.130). Conclusions: Wall-mounted prompts may be effective in increasing the frequency of PA-related discussions between individuals with cancer and their oncology team across treatment. Additional strategies, such as easy referral to rehabilitation professionals, are also needed to facilitate safe and effective PA behaviour during and after cancer treatments.