Development and Acceptability of a Rebuilding Osteo Strength With Exercise (ROSE) Program for Women With Breast Cancer
Background:
Women with breast cancer are more prone to bone loss, joint pain, and other musculoskeletal symptoms, especially those receiving aromatase inhibitors and/or undergoing ovarian suppression therapy. Bone and joint problems can affect their quality of life and treatment adherence. Thus, the management of bone health is of clinical importance for this population.
Objective:
This study aimed to systematically develop a multicomponent bone health management intervention for women with breast cancer and assess the acceptability of the intervention program.
Methods:
The Rebuilding Osteo Strength with Exercise (ROSE) program for women with breast cancer was developed based on biological mechanisms, patient needs, evidence-based practices, theories, and stakeholder consensus using the Medical Research Council framework. An open-pilot study and post-intervention interviews were conducted to assess the acceptability of the ROSE program.
Results:
The ROSE program consisted of 6 modules, which integrated progressive exercise, bone health education, and behavior change strategies. Eight eligible patients were recruited during the open-pilot study, and all participants considered the program acceptable. Six patients accepted the post-intervention interview. Four themes emerged from the post-intervention interview: perceived benefits of participating, barriers to adherence, facilitators to adherence, and suggestions for optimization.
Conclusions:
The ROSE program is an acceptable bone health intervention program for women with breast cancer. Future refinements will be made before efficacy testing.
Trial registration:
The study was retrospectively registered with the Chinese Clinical Trial Registry, registration number ChiCTR2300072208.
