Evaluating Whether Charity Incentives Motive Cancer Survivors to Increase Physical Activity

The investigators propose to examine whether linking daily activity with charity-based incentives motivates cancer survivors to initiate and maintain physical activity. Linking daily physical activity goals with a cancer specific charity incentive may provide a uniquely salient motivator that promotes increased physical activity among cancer survivors. The investigators will examine whether using activity monitors in combination with charitable incentives leads to greater increases in physical activity compared to activity monitors alone. Target participants includes cancer survivors who are not already active. Physical activity (e.g., steps per day, time in moderate-intensity activity) will be examined at baseline and following a 12-week intervention period using an activPAL accelerometer. After the baseline assessment, both groups will receive a fitbit monitor and informational material designed to increase physical activity. Participants in the fitbit+charity group will have donations made in their name to a cancer charity if they meet daily step goals. Physical activity levels will be monitored using the fitbit device for 6-weeks following the formal intervention period.

Sex

All

Minimum age

18 Years

Maximum age

50 Years

Inclusion Criteria:

1. Adults ≥ 18 years and \<50 y, with diagnosed Adolescent or Young Adult cancer (diagnosed between 15-39y of age);
2. ≥ 6 months post-cancer treatment
3. English speaking
4. Participate in \<60 minutes of MVPA/week
5. Own a smartphone
6. Have access to computer
7. Participants must also pass a physical activity readiness questionnaire or receive medical clearance from their primary care physician or oncologist.

Exclusion Criteria:

1. Joint, cardiovascular, or respiratory problem(s) precluding physical activity
2. Metastatic disease
3. Planned elective surgery or pregnancy during intervention/follow-up that would interfere with participation (e.g., breast reconstructive surgery).
4. Already using a wearable device \>5 days per week

• DERIVEDKeadle SK, Meuter L, Phelan S, Phillips SM. Charity-based incentives motivate young adult cancer survivors to increase physical activity: a pilot randomized clinical trial. J Behav Med. 2021 Oct;44(5):682-693. doi: 10.1007/s10865-021-00218-w. Epub 2021 Apr 7. PMID 33825070