Physical activity levels in patients with cancer: from problem to intervention in the Italian context.

Purpose: Physical activity level (PAL) is associated with a higher survival rate and a lower risk of recurrence in patients with cancer [1]. Although international studies report that most patients are insuffi- ciently active, few data are available for the Italian context. The aims of the study were to (i) understand the size of the problem (i.e., the prevalence of insufficiently active patients) and (ii) investigate Sports Science University students’ knowledge, perception, and expectations regarding exercise oncology. Methods: (i) PAL was evaluated by the SenseWear armband activity monitor (BodyMedia Inc., Pittsburgh, PA) or questionnaire (Godin’s Leisure Time Exercise Questionnaire). A total of 624 patients with cancer were included in this analysis. The most prevalent cancer sites were breast (n = 357) and upper-gastrointestinal tract (n = 143), 42% of patients were still on active anticancer treatment. (ii) A total of 854 students attending Sports Science Universities in Verona, Urbino, Chieti, and Rome completed an online survey, investigating the knowledge and perception regarding exercise oncology. Results: (i) 30% and 10% of patients undergoing anticancer treatment achieved the recommended amount of aerobic and strength exercises, respectively. The daily PALs of patients with breast cancer who completed the anticancer treatment were on average 1.3 METs, ranging from a minimum of almost 0.8 to a maximum of almost 2.5 METs. (ii) Regarding Sports Science students, 44% and 54% of them correctly identified the amount of aerobic and strength activity, respectively, proposed by the American College of Sports Medicine’s guidelines for patients with cancer. Almost all the students (84–99%) recognize the importance of exercise along the cancer continuum, but only a small percentage (22–35%) felt confident in providing coun- seling or prescribing exercise for patients with cancer. Conclusions: Most patients with cancer are insufficiently active both during and after anticancer treatment. Although kinesiology students are aware of the benefits of exercise in cancer settings, they do not feel confident in prescribing an exercise program. Therefore, Sports Science Universities should meet the expectations of the students. In this regard, implementing their academic offerings, including dedi- cated internships, could represent the solution able to adequately support patient to switch to and maintain an active lifestyle. Reference [1] Brown JC et al. Exerc Sport Sci Rev. 2020.