Physical activity and dietary behaviour among adolescents who have completed active cancer treatment – a study protocol for a qualitative investigation

Abstract

Introduction: Approximately 200 Irish adolescents receive a cancer diagnosis each year (1). Cancer treatment during youth can be associated with significant toxicity resulting in cancer-related fatigue, musculoskeletal complications, decreased physical function and quality of life (QoL), and an increased risk for the development of chronic diseases (e.g., obesity and cardiovascular disease) (3). Physical activity (PA) and dietary behaviour change interventions can play an important role in treating and managing cancer-related side effects and support the optimisation of health among adolescent survivors of cancer. (5). Methodology: An exploratory, descriptive, qualitative research design will be adopted, incorporating focus groups (FGs) and interviews as methods of data collection (See Figure 1). Adolescents aged 12 to 16 years old who have completed active cancer treatment, their parents/guardians and oncology healthcare professionals (e.g., oncologists, nurses, physiotherapists) will be recruited. Semi-structured interview guides will be developed and will include questions that discuss PA and diet i) before, during and after cancer treatment, ii) barriers and facilitators to engaging in these behaviours, and iii) recommendations for a PA and dietary health behaviour change intervention. Data collection will continue until data saturation is achieved (8). Implications of the Research: To the authors’ knowledge this is the first qualitative investigation of PA and dietary behaviour to be conducted among Irish adolescents aged 12 to 16 years who have completed active cancer treatment. This research study will assist in addressing gaps identified in the existing scientific literature, and provide vital information regarding adolescents’ experiences of these two health behaviours which can support the optimisation of clinical care for this population. The knowledge obtained in this investigation will inform the development of a PA and dietary behaviour change intervention for adolescents who have completed active cancer treatment which will be implemented and evaluated in a subsequent research study.