Randomized controlled trial of a behaviour change intervention to increase aerobic and resistance exercise and quality of life in older prostate and breast cancer survivors: the OutPACE trial

Abstract

Background: Physical activity (PA) has been shown to provide numerous benefits for breast and prostate cancer survivors. Purpose: To test the efficacy of an implementation intention intervention on aerobic and resistance training and improving QoL in older (55+) prostate and breast cancer survivors. Methods: Survivors (N=41) were randomly assigned to one of three groups: (1) two-time implementation intention, (2) one-time implementation intention, or (3) control group following baseline assessments. PA, both self-reported and objectively measured, and QoL measures were assessed at baseline, one, and three months post-randomization. Results: Analyses of covariance did not find significant differences in PA behaviours between groups at follow-ups irrespective of PA measure. Breast cancer survivors in the two-time intervention group reported significant improvements on breast cancer subscale at both follow-ups. Conclusion: Although significant differences in PA behaviours were not found, breast cancer survivors reported QoL improvements. The small sample resulted in this study being underpowered to detect small differences in PA behaviour, justifying additional research