Physical Activity as Primary Prevention to Address Cancer Disparities

Objective

To review the research literature on physical activity (PA) intervention trials, with an emphasis on underserved populations.

Data Source

Research studies, review articles, and books.

Conclusion

PA intervention studies have generally shown statistically significant but modest outcomes. Comprehensive intervention designs combining individual-level and physical environmental changes have posted the largest effect sizes, and emerging models are incorporating sociocultural and organizational environmental changes with promising results. Research including or targeting underserved populations poses unique challenges at each stage of the intervention process: design, recruitment, implementation, and evaluation. Synthesis of evidence-based approaches to address these challenges is presented.

Implications for Nursing Practice

Promoting PA in underserved communities is essential in improving population-level cancer outcomes. Additional resources are becoming available to nursing researchers and practitioners to aid in the conduct of PA intervention in understudied groups.

Keywords: Physical activity, exercise, ethnic minority, sedentary, cancer prevention, African American, Latino, Hispanic, obesity