Exploring physical activity experiences, barriers, and facilitators among individuals of South Asian heritage living with and beyond cancer

ObjectivesThe purpose of this study was to understand the physical activity (PA) experiences, as well as preferences, barriers, and facilitators to exercise, among individuals of South Asian heritage diagnosed with cancer.DesignA qualitative descriptive design was used. Individuals of South Asian heritage were recruited via a mix of convenience sampling and purposive sampling, with outreach via radio, posters in community settings, and from outreach to participants in current exercise oncology studies. Inclusion criteria included being over the age of 18; diagnosed with any cancer type and stage; pre, during, or post-treatment; able to speak English, Hindi, or Punjabi; and self-identified as South Asian. Data for this study was collected via semi-structured interviews conducted in the participants language of choice. Interviews were transcribed verbatim in the original language and then analyzed using conventional content analysis. For non-English interviews, the codes created through analysis were subsequently translated into English, and back-translated into the original language, to ensure accuracy. These codes were then organized into themes and categories.ResultsEight participants were recruited, with 5 interviews conducted in Punjabi and 3 interviews in English. The three themes that were created from the participant interviews include: (1) Culture, (2) Informational Needs, and (3) The Nature of Exercise Oncology Interventions. Within these themes, categories included barriers and facilitators to PA, as well as PA needs.ConclusionParticipants' perspectives provided insights into the PA experiences, barriers, facilitators, and needs of people of South Asian heritage living with and beyond cancer. These results can be used to inform the tailoring of exercise oncology resources to better support physical activity and exercise for this population.

Automated summary

The study aims to understand the PA experiences, preferences, barriers, and facilitators among South Asian individuals diagnosed with cancer. Qualitative interviews were conducted to collect data, and three themes were identified: Culture, Informational Needs, and The Nature of Exercise Oncology Interventions. The findings provide insights into the barriers, facilitators, and needs of this population, which can inform the development of tailored exercise oncology resources.