Understanding the Experiences of Physical Activity, Body Image, and Quality of Life in Young Adult Males Living with and beyond Cancer

Abstract

For young adults (YAs), a cancer diagnosis and subsequent treatments may result in physical changes that can negatively impact body image (BI) and health-related quality of life (HRQL). Physical activity (PA) is an evidence-based tool found to impact both BI and HRQL. However, most research has focused on the perspectives of older adults with breast or prostate cancer. No research has explored the experiences of PA, BI, and HRQL in YA males affected by cancer. A qualitative study was designed for YA males diagnosed with cancer between the ages of 20 and 39 years. Eligible participants were recruited through pre-existing exercise oncology studies, support organizations, and social media. Semi-structured interviews were conducted to understand participants' experiences of PA, BI, and HRQL. All interviews were transcribed verbatim and analyzed using interpretive description. The participants were YA males (n = 7) with a mean age of 32.7 ± 4.0 years. Themes included a loss of identity due to cancer, building autonomy and identity using PA, and the "should" behind BI. PA for YA males living with and beyond cancer may support them in rebuilding their identity and BI. The development of exercise oncology resources for YA males may consider addressing BI through education or exercise prescription programs, with the goal of enhancing HRQL.

Keywords: YA males; body image; exercise oncology; physical activity; quality of life.