Adherence to physical activity guidelines and factors associated with not meeting guidelines among lymphoma survivors with chronic fatigue

Abstract

Abstract

Purpose

Activity levels among lymphoma survivors with chronic fatigue are under-researched, and further knowledge is required to identify subgroups with increased risks of inactivity. The primary aim of this study was to examine the prevalence of chronic fatigued lymphoma survivors not meeting physical activity (PA) guidelines and explore demographic, cancer related, and health- and lifestyle factors associated with not meeting PA guidelines.

Methods

This cross-sectional study is based on baseline data from a randomized controlled trial with chronic fatigued lymphoma survivors (n=150) treated between 2010 and 2020. Chronic fatigue was assessed by Chalder Fatigue Questionnaire. Participation got approved by an oncologist in accordance with inclusion and exclusion criteria. PA was self-reported using the Godin Leisure Time Exercise Questionnaire (GLTEQ), asking for mean hours and intensity of leisure time PA on a weekly basis. The responses were categorized into meeting/not meeting aerobic PA guidelines of 150 minutes of moderate intensity per week and/or 75 minutes of vigorous intensity per week. Descriptive statistics analyses and logistic regression analyses were conducted.

Results

Sixty-four percent did not meet PA guidelines. Not meeting PA guidelines was associated with lower education, emotional function and VO2peak. There were no significant associations between levels of fatigue and PA in multivariate regression.

Conclusion

A high proportion of long-term chronically fatigued lymphoma survivors did not meet the WHO PA guidelines. Our results imply that lymphoma survivors not meeting PA guidelines share some common demographic and lifestyle characteristics, which may have clinical implications for identifying survivors in need of PA follow-up.

Key words: chronic fatigue, lymphoma, cancer survivors, late effects, physical activity