MacMillan Objective Physical Activity Assessment Project. Version 1
Research type
Research Study
Full title
Is it feasible to use wrist worn accelerometers in a physical activity programme for people affected by cancer?
IRAS ID
216331
Contact name
Melvyn Hillsdon
Contact email
Sponsor organisation
University of Exeter
Duration of Study in the UK
1 years, 0 months, 0 days
Research summary
The Physical Activity Behaviour Change Care Pathway was developed and implemented by MacMillan Cancer Support to promote health, fitness and quality of life for people affected by cancer, to increase their ability to lead an active and independent life and to reduce their reliance on clinical services. To assess changes in physical activity levels as a result of this programme self-report measures of physical activity are currently being used, but these are subject to bias. As such the effectiveness of the programme may be exaggerated due to over-reporting of physical activity. Accelerometers are small lightweight activity monitors, worn on the wrist, (like a wrist watch) which are able to accurately and objectively assess physical activity. However whether it is feasible to use accelerometers in people affected by cancer who are participating in the Physical Activity Behaviour Change Care Pathway is unknown. This research project aims to assess the feasibility of using accelerometers in people affected by cancer, who are participating in this care pathway. Approximately 60 people enrolled in the care pathway at the MacMillan centres in Luton and Lincoln (120 participants in total) will be asked to wear an accelerometer continuously for 9 days and to complete a short questionnaire regarding their experience of wearing the accelerometer on 2 occasions: once prior to their engagement with the care pathway, and once more after 6 months. Accelerometers and questionnaires will be provided by health care professionals at meetings scheduled as part of the existing care pathway and will be returned to investigators at University of Exeter via post. The objectives for this project are: 1) to assess the feasibility of collecting this data as part of the MacMillan Physical Activity Behaviour Change Care Pathway and 2) to assess the acceptability of this measurement protocol to the people affected by cancer.
REC name
Yorkshire & The Humber - South Yorkshire Research Ethics Committee
REC reference
16/YH/0523
Date of REC Opinion
25 Jan 2017
REC opinion
Further Information Favourable Opinion