Effects of web platform delivery of a physical activity program for breast cancer survivors: a randomized controlled trial.

PURPOSE

We previously demonstrated that a 3-month peer-delivered program (Moving Forward Together, MFT) significantly increased breast cancer survivors' moderate-to-vigorous PA (MVPA). To enhance MFT's scalability and reach, we adapted it to an existing web platform and developed webMFT. Our goal was to test the efficacy of webMFT on survivors' MVPA.

METHODS

In a randomized controlled trial, we trained ten peer coaches from cancer care organizations to deliver webMFT or MVPA Tracking to 61 breast cancer survivors (mean age = 58.10 years [SD = 8.55], 1.40 years post-diagnosis [SD = 0.50], 80% Stage 0-1 cancer) for 3 months. Both groups received a FitBit® tracker and behavioral supports of weekly synchronization reminders, physical activity (PA) tipsheets, and recommended PA goals. In addition, webMFT participants received weekly coaching calls tailored to their FitBit® data shared through the web platform. All participants wore an Actigraph accelerometer for 7 days at baseline and at post-intervention and completed quality of life (QOL), mood, fatigue and physical functioning questionnaires. We used mixed effects regression models to examine between-group differences on outcomes.

RESULTS

Both groups significantly increased their MVPA from baseline to 12 weeks but there were no significant between-group differences in change in MVPA (b = - 22.84, SE = 16.99, p = .18). There were significant between-group effects favoring webMFT in improved QOL at 12 weeks (b = 1.56, SE = 0.77, p = .04).

CONCLUSIONS

Adapting the efficacious MFT intervention for web delivery did not result in significant improvements in MVPA vs. MVPA Tracking. This raises questions as to whether the efforts undertaken to adapt and deliver the program through the web platform were justified as compared to MVPA Tracking with behavioral supports.

IMPLICATIONS FOR CANCER SURVIVORS

Promoting PA does not require web delivery of coaching-using physical activity trackers with weekly reminders and resources is also effective.

TRIAL REGISTRATION

This trial was registered in Clinicaltrials.gov on 6/8/2022 (NCT05409664).