Sustainability of an Integrated Adventure-Based Training and Health Education Program to Enhance Quality of Life among Chinese Childhood Cancer Survivors: A Randomized Controlled Trial

Abstract

Copyright © 2015 Wolters Kluwer Health, Inc. All rights reserved. Background: Physical activity is of paramount importance to enhance the quality of life of childhood cancer survivors. Objective: The objectives of this study were to examine the sustainability, feasibility, and acceptability of an adventure-based training and health education program in changing the exercise behavior and enhancing the physical activity levels, self-efficacy, and quality of life of childhood cancer survivors. Methods: A follow-up study (12 and 18 months) of a previous study was conducted. Participants in the experimental group (n = 33) joined a 4-day integrated adventure-based training and health education program. The control group (n = 36) received the standard medical care. Changes in exercise behavior, levels of physical activity, self-efficacy, and quality of life were assessed from the time of recruitment, and at 12 and 18 months after starting the intervention. Process evaluation was conducted to determine whether the program was feasible and acceptable to participants. Results: From baseline to 18 months after the intervention, the experimental group reported statistically significant differences in the stages of change in physical activity and higher levels of physical activity, self-efficacy, and quality of life than did the control group. The results of process evaluation revealed that the program was both feasible and acceptable to participants. Conclusions: The program was found to have substantial effects on enhancing the physical activity levels, self-efficacy, and quality of life of childhood cancer survivors over at least 18 months. Implications for Practice: Healthcare professionals should consider adopting such programs to promote the regular physical activity among childhood cancer survivors.