Physical activity care for cancer survivors
Physical activity care for cancer survivors
he number of people living with or after cancer who visit their general practitioner (GP) is growing. These patients often struggle with fatigue, reduced fitness, and mental health issues. Physical activity (PA) can help, and many patients see the general practice as a good place for lifestyle advice or support. However, for cancer survivors this is not yet a standard part of GP care. This thesis of Famke Huizinga describes the implementation of a PA program for cancer survivors in 14 general practices. 149 patients took part in program, which consisted of six coaching sessions with a trained practice nurse (PN) over nine months, focused on encouraging daily PA.
The program reached a relatively vulnerable group, including people with lower education levels, higher unemployment, and more psychosocial issues. Participants showed significant improvements in both mental (i.e. fatigue and mood) and physical outcomes (i.e. leg strength, and endurance). Evaluation of organizational factors showed that the program was feasible, as long as enough time and staff were available. A motivated and well-trained PN proved essential. It helped when patients had clear care needs, which increased PNs’ professional satisfaction. PNs and patients preferred counselling to go beyond PA alone, by also addressing mental health and other lifestyle factors.
PA programs in general practice are promising for cancer survivors, but only if they are well organized. A motivated and trained PN is key. However, long-term integration remains difficult due to a lack of structure and funding. We therefore advocate for a sustainable, funded care model with clear roles, so that GPs can provide appropriate, lifestyle-based aftercare for the growing number of patients after cancer.