Physical activity in people affected by head and neck cancers: gender-specific barriers and preferences—ORLAPA survey results

People with head and neck cancers (HNCs) often experience deconditioning, nutritional challenges, and low adherence to physical activity (PA) guidelines. While gender influences PA behaviors in other cancers, data among HNC survivors remain limited. We investigated gender-specific differences in PA preferences, perceived barriers, and interest in nutrition education among French HNC patients. In June 2023, 400 adult HNC patients at a French cancer center were invited to complete a 24-item online survey assessing sociodemographics, digital device use, PA preferences (modality, intensity, frequency, supervision, duration, social context, location), perceived barriers, and willingness to join a nutrition-integrated education program. Gender differences were analyzed using chi-square/Fisher's exact tests and t-tests. Eighty-nine respondents (mean age 62.1 ± 11.5 years; 68.5% male) were included. Seventy-three percent expressed interest in a tailored PA program, and 70.8% felt physically able to participate. Walking was the most preferred activity (80.9%), with moderate intensity, 30–60-min sessions twice weekly. Men favored independent, home- or outdoor-based activities (e.g., biking: 52.5% vs. 21.4% in women; p = 0.02) and exercising alone, while women preferred group-based, supervised formats (e.g., yoga/dance: 53.6% vs. 21.3%; p = 0.002) and showed greater interest in nutrition education (60.7% vs. 13.1%; p < 0.001). Fatigue and lack of motivation were the most common barriers (36%). Distinct gender-specific patterns in PA and educational preferences exist among HNC survivors. Men may benefit most from autonomous, home- or outdoors-based PA programs, while women appear to engage more readily with supervised, socially interactive formats including targeted nutritional guidance.