Lifestyle Modification Program for Lung Cancer Patients - Physical Activity Preference

A Brief Messaging Lifestyle Modification Program for Patients With Non-small Cell Lung Cancer

Lung cancer is the leading cause of deaths in the world. Engagement in physical activity can provide important benefits for cancer patients. The current study is a cross-sectional questionnaire survey and in-depth interview to understand the physical activity preferences of patients with lung cancer. This process could help to develop a lifestyle modification program based on our patients' needs and preferences.

Lung cancer is one of the most common cancer globally and locally. Patients with lung cancer are in a uniquely difficult situation in their disease, comorbidities, and treatment that may lead to worsened symptoms and many negative health consequences, including fatigue, irritability, and impaired daytime functioning.

Physical activity (PA) is defined as 'any bodily movement produced by skeletal muscle that results in energy expenditure'. Several health benefits of increased PA have been reported for people with cancer. PA plays a critical role across the cancer trajectory, from prevention through to post-diagnosis and has been proposed as an alternative for improving physical and psychosocial health outcomes, reducing cancer recurrence, and cancer-specific and all-cause mortality. However, most of the findings were predominantly in breast and colorectal cancers. The PA dosage required to attain health benefits across these cancer groups is not uniform, nor is it clear whether the results can be applied to other groups of people with cancer.

The current study includes a cross-sectional questionnaire survey and an in-depth interview. It aims to understand the current physical activity practice and preference of patients with lung cancer, which could help to develop a lifestyle modification program based on our patients' needs and preferences.

Inclusion Criteria:

• Aged 18 years and above;
• Diagnosis with non-small cell lung cancer
• General condition stable, either is undergoing or finished treatment
• Able to speak and read Chinese
• Able to complete the self-administered questionnaire
• Mental, cognitive and physically fit for joining the trial as determined by the clinician or responsible investigator

Exclusion Criteria:

• Mentally unfit for answering questionnaire
• Unable to give informed consent