Explaining the Aerobic Exercise Intention-behavior Gap in Cancer Survivors.

Objectives: We sought to quantify the aerobic exercise intention-behavior gap in hematologic cancer survivors (HCS), and examine the correlates of intention formation and translation using the multi-process action control framework.

Methods: HCS (N = 606) completed a survey reporting their aerobic exercise motivation and behavior. The correlates of intention formation and translation were analyzed using separate logistic regressions.

Results: Overall, 71% (N = 428/606) of HCS intended to do aerobic exercise, 44% (N = 267/606) met aerobic exercise guidelines, and 60% of intenders (N = 256/428) translated their intention into aerobic exercise. Attitude (OR = 1.9), perceived control (OR = 1.5), younger age (OR = 2.0), and higher education (OR = 2.1) explained intention formation (all ps ≤ .001). A sense of obligation/regret (OR = 2.8), self-regulation over alternative activities (OR = 1.6), attitude (OR = 2.0), perceived control (OR = 1.7), planning (OR = 1.7), being female (OR = 2.0), and younger (OR = 3.0) explained intention translation (all ps < .005).

Conclusions: Forming an intention is insufficient for many HCS to meet aerobic exercise guidelines. Interventions targeting the determinants of both intention formation and translation may be most effective in promoting aerobic exercise in cancer survivors.