Increasing physical activity levels following treatment for cervical cancer: an intervention mapping approach

PURPOSE: The purpose of this study was to utilise the intervention mapping (IM) protocol as a framework with which to develop an intervention underpinned by relevant behaviour change theory to promote physical activity (PA) following treatment for cervical cancer. METHODS: The six steps of the IM protocol were followed. A qualitative semi-structured interview study and a rapid review of the literature were conducted along with the development of a logic model of the problem and a logic model of change to inform intervention development. RESULTS: An intervention was developed which aims to increase PA levels following treatment for cervical cancer, tailored to address key findings from the IM needs assessment. These include embedding behavioural and social strategies that help participants to overcome perceived barriers to PA participation; goal setting strategies to gradually increase PA levels with a view of reaching relevant PA guidelines for cancer survivors and feedback to encourage self-assessment of well-being and PA capability. CONCLUSION: This study maps the development of a novel PA intervention for those who have been treated for cervical cancer. The use of a systematic development framework was necessary as little insight exists regarding PA preferences after treatment for cervical cancer. IMPLICATIONS FOR CANCER SURVIVORS: PA behaviour is associated with positive physical and psychological health outcomes for cancer survivors. Optimising targeted promotion of PA behaviour following treatment for cervical cancer may result in an enhanced survivorship experience through increased PA behaviour and improved quality of life (QOL). SUPPLEMENTARY INFORMATION: The online version contains supplementary material available at 10.1007/s11764-021-01058-y.