Keywords

Osteoporosis, Breast cancer survivors, Transtheoretical Model, Progressive strength weight training

 

Authors

  1. Ott, Carol D.
  2. Lindsey, Ada M.
  3. Waltman, Nancy L.
  4. Gross, Gloria J.
  5. Twiss, Janice J.
  6. Berg, Kris
  7. Brisco, Patricia L.
  8. Henricksen, Sharon

Abstract

INTRODUCTION/PURPOSE: Many women who have been treated for breast cancer are at increased risk for bone loss. Strength/weight training exercises (SWTE) may be effective in preventing bone loss and subsequent fractures. The purpose of this exploratory study was to examine psychological factors (self-efficacy, perceived benefits vs. costs, and processes of change) and their relationship to adherence and progression in use of heavier weights in breast cancer survivors (BCS).

 

SAMPLE: Twenty-three BCS with mean age of 54.8 (SD = 7.2) years, mean time since menopause of 5.8 (SD = 5.3) years, and mean time since cancer treatment completion of 4.1 (SD = 3.0) years.

 

METHODS: Exploratory one-group design with multicomponent intervention inclusive of medication, calcium with vitamin D supplement, and home-based SWTE with facilitative strategies by nurses and personal exercise trainers based on the Transtheoretical Model.

 

FINDINGS: BCS doing SWTE for 6 months: (1) maintain a high level of self-efficacy, (2) perceive increasing benefits for 6 months, (3) use cognitive processes more frequently than behavioral ones, (4) were highly adherent to the SWTE, and (5) demonstrate that behavioral processes are positively related to increase in pounds lifted.

 

DISCUSSION/CLINICAL IMPLICATIONS: Larger randomized trials studies are needed to determine the most effective strategies for assuring adherence to and progression of SWTE in this population at risk for osteoporosis.