Exploring tensions within young breast cancer survivors’ physical activity, nutrition and weight management beliefs and practices

Abstract

Purpose: Although the benefits of physical activity, healthy eating, and weight management for breast cancer survivors are well established, little is known about how best to promote these practices among women diagnosed before age 40 years. We conducted a qualitative study to explore young breast cancer survivors’ beliefs and practices regarding physical activity, nutrition, and weight management.

Methods: Semi-structured interviews were conducted with 12 women (M_age=36 years, SD=3.4) who were within 5 years of breast cancer diagnosis. Data were analyzed using thematic analysis.

Results: Participants’ accounts revealed several tensions between the factors motivating them to engage in physical activity, healthy eating, and weight management and those deterring them. Tensions were captured within three themes: (1) prolonging life with a healthy lifestyle versus enjoying living; (2) perceiving benefits versus barriers, and; (3) seeking social connection versus protecting the self from social threats. Participants also noted preferences, which if considered could help them maintain healthy lifestyle practices.

Conclusions: Although young breast cancer survivors value physical activity, healthy eating, and weight management, they are constantly weighing the benefits of these practices against their perceived drawbacks. To facilitate long-term participation among young breast cancer survivors, future programing must address their conflicting beliefs and priorities.

Implications for Rehabilitation

• Physical activity, healthy eating, and weight management can play an important role in the health and wellbeing of breast cancer survivors.

• Young breast cancer survivors experience a ‘tug-of-war’ between the factors motivating them to be active and eat healthy and those deterring them.

• Following treatment for breast cancer, young women would benefit from tailored lifestyle-based programing that addresses their conflicting beliefs and priorities.

• Tailored programing might involve strategically scheduled program times or flexible programs designed to include the participation of family and friends.

Keywords:

• Breast cancer
• survivorship
• physical activity
• nutrition
• weight management
• qualitative

Disclosure statement

No potential conflict of interest was reported by the authors.