A SECONDARY DATA ANALYSIS ON THE RELATIONSHIP BETWEEN BREAST CANCER SURVIVORS’ SYMPTOMS AND PHYSICAL ACTIVITY LEVELS MEASURED BY FITBIT (STEPS/DAY)

Abstract

Survival rates for breast cancer have increased significantly in recent years. Although more patients are surviving now, these women still experience many symptom clusters years post-treatment. One such cluster includes fatigue, sleep disturbances, and pain. In order to better manage this symptom cluster (fatigue, sleep disturbances, and pain), additional research is needed. Additionally, little is known about the relationship of physical activity levels and symptoms among breast cancer survivors (BCS). However, race and age may explain some of the variation in symptoms and activity levels. Further, excess body mass index (BMI) may impact the overall health of BCS and can be mediated by increased physical activity. This secondary data analysis aims 1) to describe the usual physical activity (steps/day via FITBIT®) of BCS, 2) to explore a correlation between physical activity levels and BMI of BCS, 3) to identify differences in physical activity levels by race of BCS and 4) to examine relationships between physical activity and symptoms of BCS. A convenience sample of 39 BCS were recruited from an outpatient cancer center. The subjects completed multiple survey instruments, included were the Patient-Reported Outcome Measurement Information System (PROMIS) Pain Intensity, Pain Interference Short Form 6a, Sleep Disturbance Short Form 6a, Emotional Distress-Anxiety Short Form 6a, and the Piper Cancer Fatigue Scale SF-12. The subjects wore a FITBIT ® for seven days. The sample consisted of patients with an average age of 59 years old (Range = 41-73) and approximately half black (19) and white (19), with one identified as “other”. The majority of participants also underwent both chemotherapy and radiation (29). Further relationships will be examined as data is analyzed. The results of this data analysis and the relationships found will aid in establishing the best patient care and providing the best quality of life for BCS.