Multilevel determinants of physical activity in rural breast cancer survivors: a mixed-methods study
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Discussion
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Implication
Mixed-methods study reveals multilevel barriers and facilitators to physical activity in rural breast cancer survivors, suggesting targets for tailored interventions.
Key Points
- To identify multilevel ecological determinants of physical activity among rural breast cancer survivors to inform contextually adapted lifestyle interventions.
- Conducted an explanatory sequential mixed-methods study combining quantitative surveys and qualitative in-depth interviews.
- Included rural breast cancer survivors (N = 67 for quantitative analysis, N = 38 for in-depth interviews) who were on average 62.0 ± 13.1 years old and 7.2 ± 8.1 years post-diagnosis.
- Used multivariable regression models adjusted for age and education alongside qualitative thematic analysis to identify individual, social, and environmental factors.
- Only 46.2% of rural breast cancer survivors met recommended physical activity guidelines.
- Multivariable regression models indicated that motivational readiness, lower perceived stress, fewer depressive symptoms, available exercise infrastructure, and neighborhood aesthetics were significantly associated with higher activity levels.
- Qualitative interviews revealed critical barriers, including lack of motivation, low social support, financial cost, limited resource access, and built environment constraints.
Cite This Study
Murley et al. (2026) studied this question.