Breast Cancer Patients’ Experiences While Transitioning to a Virtual Cardiovascular Rehabilitation Program during a Pandemic (COVID-19)
Year: 2021
Type: dissertation
Abstract: COVID-19 restricted access to onsite Cardiovascular Rehabilitation (CR) programs for patients with breast cancer (BC). Objectives: [1] compare BC survivors’ Physical Activity (PA) in onsite CR to virtual CR following the COVID-19 transition and compare to a matched cohort from prior to the pandemic (2018/2019). [2] explore experiences of transitioning to and engaging in virtual CR. Methodology: Quantitative analysis of CR PA data from pandemic (n=18) and 2018/2019 cohorts (n=18), and semi-structured focus group interviews with the pandemic cohort (n=9) in the context of the PRECEDE-PROCEED model. Results: No significant differences in mean but increased variation of activity duration, frequency, and MET-minutes were observed. Focus groups revealed women valued their CR experiences pre-COVID-19 and were anxious during the transition. BC patients recommended virtual programs increase comradery, technology, and professional guidance. Conclusion: PA experiences with a pandemic transition vary among BC survivors. Targeting individualized strategies and exercise prescriptions are important.
Source: TSpace (University of Toronto)
Author: Larkin, Jillian
Language: English
Topic: Cancer survivorship and care
Subfield: Oncology
Field: Medicine
Domain: Health Sciences
Open Access status: green
OpenAlex ID: W6989503750