Motivational Intervention for Cancer Survivors

This trial aims to help cancer survivors become more active by testing a motivational program. Participants will receive a brief motivational intervention to encourage exercise, using tools like motivational interviews, a Fitbit for step tracking, and personalized action plans. Two groups will participate: one receives the motivational program immediately, while the other waits for three months while using a Fitbit. The trial is ideal for cancer survivors who have completed treatment, are part of the World Trade Center Health Program, and can walk at least slowly. As an unphased trial, this study offers a unique opportunity for participants to enhance their well-being through increased physical activity.

The trial information does not specify if you need to stop taking your current medications. However, it excludes those receiving active cancer treatment, except for hormonal therapy, so you may need to discuss your specific medications with the trial team.

Research has shown that motivational interviewing (MI), a key component of the brief motivational intervention, is generally easy for people to handle. Studies have found that MI can help cancer survivors become more active and feel less tired, without causing major side effects. This method has been safely used in similar situations, such as encouraging more people to get cancer screenings. By focusing on positive behavior changes and using tools like mobile health monitoring, this approach is considered safe for participants. No reports of serious negative effects have been linked to this method.¹²³⁴⁵

Researchers are excited about the Motivational Intervention for cancer survivors because it takes a unique approach by integrating psychological strategies with technology. Unlike typical physical activity programs that may not actively engage the participants' mindset, this intervention uses motivational interviewing to foster a positive attitude towards exercise. It also includes mobile health monitoring with Fitbits, encouraging participants to track their progress in real-time. Additionally, the intervention emphasizes personalized action planning, helping individuals design a physical activity routine that suits their lifestyle and capabilities. This comprehensive method aims to empower cancer survivors to improve their physical activity levels in a sustainable and meaningful way.

This trial will compare a Brief Motivational Intervention with a Wait List Control for cancer survivors. Research has shown that short motivational programs, like the one participants in the intervention arm will receive, can help cancer survivors become more active. These programs often use motivational interviewing to foster a positive attitude towards exercise and are paired with tools like Fitbits to track daily activity and inspire more movement. Evidence suggests that these programs can also reduce cancer-related tiredness and improve overall well-being. Overall, these methods have successfully encouraged cancer survivors to be more active, leading to better health outcomes.¹²³⁴⁶