Physical Activity Platform to Improve Bone Health in Cancer Survivors

Cancer treatment-induced bone loss and the subsequent risk of fractures in both men and women impacts not just survivors' quality of life, but is also a significant burden on national health care. Clinical studies have reported that moderate-intensity resistance exercises prevent a decline in bone health in female cancer survivors, and that strength training may reduce complications associated with cancer such as fatigue, muscle wasting, and bone loss. Unfortunately, only a small percentage of women who have had cancer, engage in and adhere to a strength training exercise routine. The investigators have developed an internet-based application, Thrivors, that guides cancer survivors through exercise routines with light-to-moderate strength training in the home setting, and connects them to survivorship resources. In this Phase I proposal, the investigators will develop and deploy an enhanced version, Thrivors+BH, that disseminates resistance training exercises specifically impacting bone health (BH), integrated with video-based interactive feedback and tracking of adherence to exercise routines. The goal is to validate Thrivors+BH as a novel tool to bridge the gaps between cancer survivorship, physical activity, value-based care and health care organizations (providers and payers), to positively impact bone health in breast cancer survivors.

Sex

Female

Minimum age

40 Years

Maximum age

70 Years

Inclusion Criteria:

* Female participants diagnosed at 40 - 70 years with non-metastatic breast cancer.
* Able to provide written informed consent.
* Completed chemotherapy, undergoing adjuvant hormonal therapy.
* Not currently on a prescribed exercise plan and cleared for exercise by physician.
* Access to a smart phone (with a data plan), tablet, or computer (with internet access).
* Able and willing to comply with the protocol, including completion of all surveys.

Exclusion Criteria:

* Less than 4 weeks post-surgery.
* Diagnosis of osteoporosis.
* Currently participating in two or more 30-min. sessions/week of resistance or impact exercises.
* Specific condition(s) or diagnosis, both physical or psychological, or physical exam finding that precludes participation in a physical exercise program.
* Participant has hemodynamically significant heart disease (e.g., heart failure) or an arrhythmic heart condition requiring medical therapy.
* Employees or family members of the investigator, study site, or sponsor directly involved with study management.
* Participants who, in the opinion of the primary investigator, should not participate in the study.