Work

Adaptation of an Evidence-Based Arthritis Program for Breast Cancer Survivors on Aromatase Inhibitor Therapy Who Experience Joint Pain

Year: 2015

Type: article

Abstract: Adding aromatase inhibitors (AIs) to adjuvant treatment of postmenopausal women with hormone-receptor-positive breast cancer significantly reduces cancer recurrence.A common side effect of AIs is noninflammatory joint pain and stiffness (arthralgia) similar to arthritis symptoms.An evidence-based walking program developed by the Arthritis Foundation -Walk With Ease (WWE) -reduces arthritis-related joint symptoms.We hypothesized that WWE may also reduce AI-associated arthralgia.However, the potential for different barriers and facilitators to physical activity for these 2 patient populations suggested a need to adapt WWE before testing it with breast cancer survivors.We conducted qualitative research with 46 breast cancer survivors to explore program modification and inform the development of materials for an adapted program (Walk With Ease-Breast Cancer).Our process parallels the National Cancer Institute's Research-Tested Intervention Programs (RTIPs) guidelines for adapting evidence-based programs for cancer populations.Findings resulted in a customized 8page brochure to supplement existing WWE materials.The opinions expressed by authors contributing to this journal do not necessarily reflect the opinions of the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services, the Public Health Service, the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, or the authors' affiliated institutions.www.cdc.gov/pcd/issues/2015/14_0535.htm• Centers for Disease Control and Prevention 1 Sample 3: Formative (N = 16)

Source: Preventing Chronic Disease

DOI: 10.5888/pcd12.140535