Feasibility and acceptability of a group-mediated exercise intervention for gynecological cancer survivors

Purpose Examine feasibility and acceptability of a group-mediated cognitive-behavioral (GMCB) intervention targeting planned, self-managed physical activity (PA). Design Sequential mixed methods, single arm pre-/post-test design with a 4-week follow-up. Participants Post-treatment gynecologic cancer survivors. Methods Participants attended 8 weekly facilitator-led group sessions and completed assessments at baseline, post-intervention and follow-up. Feasibility was assessed by recruitment rate, retention rate, capture of outcomes, intervention usability and intervention fidelity. Acceptability was examined via qualitative interviews. Preliminary estimates of intervention effectiveness (PA, PA social cognitions and sleep) were collected. Findings 355 participants were approached and 38 consented. Twenty took part in the study and 17 (85%) completed the intervention. Thematic content analysis revealed positive group experiences. Cognitive-behavioral strategies were beneficial. Goal-setting and shared cancer recovery experience facilitated connection among group members. Implications Program acceptability was high among a diverse sample of gynecologic cancer survivors and delivery of the program is feasible to this group of gynecologic cancer survivors. Recruitment challenges were present but study retention was high.