Risk, colon cancer & physical activity: a qualitative exploration in older adults

Semper, Kelly (2014) Risk, colon cancer & physical activity: a qualitative exploration in older adults. Doctoral thesis, University of East Anglia.

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Abstract

Rationale and Objectives
There is convincing evidence that physical activity (PA) reduces risk of colon cancer (CC) and may improve survival after cancer, although few older adults achieve recommended PA guidelines. Numerous barriers to participation exist, though few studies focus on socio-cultural influences. This study explores barriers specific to individuals at elevated risk of CC following screening colonoscopy, as well as how health professionals or a ‘diagnosis’ may provide additional motivation to change.
Methods
Interviews were conducted with colonic polyp patients and CC survivors over 60 years old, selectively sampled from a feasibility study for a randomised controlled PA intervention. Narrative accounts enabled discussion of influences on health behaviour throughout participants’ lifetimes, the impact of their recent ‘diagnosis’, and attitudes towards PA. Interviews and focus groups were conducted with health professionals to triangulate data collection.
All interviews were transcribed verbatim and a constructivist grounded theory approach to data analysis was followed.
Findings
Despite not meeting current PA guidelines, participants perceived a lifetime of ‘natural’ PA. CC survivors were more inclined to initiate PA engagement to improve their health; conversely, elevated risk individuals were often not aware of their change in health status, leading them to conclude that no lifestyle change was necessary.
Professionals confirmed that no PA guidance is currently offered to screening patients, but believed that there may be scope to implement health promotion advice. Barriers towards this however, are complex and numerous.
Conclusions
The ‘meaning of PA’ is situated and understandings may differ. Despite reporting perceptions of high PA, this study sample did not seem to understand what constitutes sufficient PA to elicit a positive health response.
Risk status awareness and the benefits of PA is lacking in elevated risk individuals. For the screening setting to be utilised, questions around ‘why’, ‘when’ ‘who’ and ‘how’ health promotion should be delivered, need to be addressed.

Item Type:	Thesis (Doctoral)
Faculty \ School:	Faculty of Medicine and Health Sciences > School of Health Sciences
Depositing User:	Users 2593 not found.
Date Deposited:	15 Jun 2015 14:48
Last Modified:	15 Jun 2015 14:48
URI:	https://ueaeprints.uea.ac.uk/id/eprint/53362
DOI:

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