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Evaluation of a social cognitive theory‐based email intervention designed to influence the physical activity of survivors of breast cancer
Author(s) -
Hatchett Andrew,
Hallam Jeffrey S.,
Ford M. Allison
Publication year - 2013
Publication title -
psycho‐oncology
Language(s) - English
Resource type - Journals
SCImago Journal Rank - 1.41
H-Index - 137
eISSN - 1099-1611
pISSN - 1057-9249
DOI - 10.1002/pon.3082
Subject(s) - breast cancer , intervention (counseling) , social cognitive theory , physical activity , psychological intervention , medicine , cognition , physical therapy , physical activity level , cancer , psychology , psychiatry , psychotherapist
Objective The aim of this study is to evaluate a 12‐week social cognitive theory (SCT)‐based email intervention designed to influence the physical activity of survivors of breast cancer. Methods Seventy‐four volunteers (intervention group, n = 36; control group, n = 38) were recruited by mass email and written letter solicitation. Participants completed a series of online questionnaires measuring demographic characteristics, physical activity readiness, level of physical activity and selected SCT variables at baseline, 6 and 12 weeks. The intervention group received email messages based on SCT designed specifically for breast cancer survivors and targeting physical activity. For the first 6 weeks of the intervention, participants assigned to the intervention group received messages weekly, from weeks 7 to 12, participants received messages every other week and had access to an e‐counselor. The control group did not receive email messages, nor did they have access to an e‐counselor. Results Significant differences in levels of self‐reported vigorous physical activity were found between groups at 6 and 12 weeks. Significant differences were also found for self‐reported moderate physical activity at 12 weeks. Conclusion Email‐based interventions based on SCT can significantly influence levels of self‐reported physical activity of breast cancer survivors.Copyright © 2012 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.