A comparison of physical activity preferences among breast, prostate, and colorectal cancer survivors in Nova Scotia, Canada

Background: Physical activity (PA) preferences may vary by cancer survivor group, but few studies have made direct comparisons. The purpose of this study was to compare the PA preferences of breast, prostate, and colorectal cancer survivors in Nova Scotia (NS), Canada. Methods: Two thousand sixty-two breast, prostate, and colorectal cancer survivors diagnosed between 2003 to 2011 were identified by the Nova Scotia Cancer Registry and mailed a questionnaire assessing PA preferences and standard demographic and medical variables. Results: Based on 741 respondents, numerous differences emerged among the cancer sites. Some of the larger differences (>20% difference) among breast, prostate, and colorectal cancer survivors, respectively, were identified for engaging in PA with other cancer survivors (42% vs. 22% vs. 30%; P <.001) and with their friends (65% vs. 40% vs. 64%; P <.001); engaging in PA at a community fitness center (59% vs. 39% vs. 45%; P <.001); and preferring supervised (60% vs. 34% vs. 45%; P <.001) and group (53% vs. 24% vs. 41%; P <.001) sessions. Differences were also found within each survivor group based on demographic and medical variables including PA behavior, age, and perceived general health. Conclusions: Breast, prostate, and colorectal cancer survivors have some differences in PA preferences that may inform targeted PA program interventions.