The effect of a social cognitive theory based physical activity program on health-related quality of life and physical activity level in breast cancer survivors

The aim of this study is to assess the impact of a social cognitive theory based physical activity promotion program (SoBFAG) on physical activity and health-related quality of life in breast cancer survivors. In the study, a single-blind, pretest-posttest randomized controlled experimental design was used and outcome variables were evaluated at pretest, 3rd and 6th month. The study sample consisted of 84 patients diagnosed with breast cancer (42 in the experimental group and 42 in the control group) who applied to a Medical Oncology Department of a one of the private hospital in Istanbul in 2020-2024. Data were collected using the Patient Descriptive Information Form, International Physical Activity Questionnaire-Short, EORTC QLQ-C30 and EORTC QLQ-BR23 Breast Cancer Specific Quality of Life Scales, FACIT Fatigue Scale, Exercise Self-Efficacy Scale, Multidimensional Exercise Outcome Expectancy Scale, Exercise Goal Setting Scale, Exercise Planning and Timing Scale, Multidimensional Perceived Social Support Scale, and Physical Activity Close Environment Scale. The mean age of the individuals who participated in the study was 49.94 ± 7.44 years and 45.24% were diagnosed at stage 3. The research data showed that the physical activity levels, , social support, and goal setting scores of women who underwent SoBFAG increased before and after the program (3 months) (p<0.005); there was no significant difference in quality of life, fatigue and other cognitive processes. In conclusion, physical activity interventions addressing cognitive processes may increase the level of physical activity in breast cancer survivors. In addition, longer-term interventions should be planned and follow-up periods should be extended by addressing the psychosocial processes of individuals in order to affect quality of life, fatigue and cognitive processes.