Promoting physical activity in glioma patients: insights from Dutch healthcare professionals

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Abstract Background Although physical activity may play a significant role in enhancing quality of life for glioma patients, its integration into clinical care remains underexplored. This study assessed the experiences, perspectives, and barriers of healthcare professionals in promoting physical activity for glioma patients. Methods An online survey with 19 questions was distributed to Dutch healthcare professionals registered with the Dutch Neuro-Oncology Society (LWNO). Additionally, professionals were individually asked to remind and invite their colleagues to participate. Participants provided informed consent. Results Fifty-five professionals from 20 centers completed the survey, mainly neurologists (35%) and nurses (33%). Most professionals (58%) indicated receiving frequent questions about physical activity, particularly regarding safety and appropriate activities. Additionally, 76% stated they often proactively provide advice, typically recommending low-intensity activities like walking. Key barriers to making such recommendations included limited information materials (37%), knowledge (33%), and referral options (27%). Professionals’ concerns about physical activity included risks of overexertion and patient discouragement if activity would prove too challenging. Despite these challenges, 89% supported integrating physical activity into glioma care, and 56% expressed a need for specific guidelines. While professionals believe in the benefits for symptom management and quality of life, 62% were neutral about the strength of supporting evidence. Conclusions Physical activity is frequently discussed in glioma care, but recommendations are mostly inappropriate due to limited knowledge, resources, and guidance. Existing guidelines are rarely applied in practice. Future research should accumulate evidence, develop tailored guidelines, and equip professionals with tools to truly integrate physical activity into practice. Key points Physical activity is discussed in glioma care, but recommendations are challenging Barriers included limited informational materials, knowledge and referral options There is strong support for integrating physical activity Importance of the study Quality of life is a major concern for glioma patients, and physical activity has emerged as a promising complementary intervention to alleviate symptoms and enhance quality of life through its positive effects on physical and mental well-being. Although healthcare professionals recognize its value and frequently discuss physical activity with patients, significant barriers persist, including limited informational materials, insufficient knowledge, and uncertainty about referral options. While the benefits of physical activity are well-established in other types of cancer with cancer-specific guidelines, such guidelines and physical activity recommendations are not implemented in glioma care. Given the lack of glioma-specific evidence on the effects of physical activity, it remains unclear whether additional guidelines should be developed at all. This study identifies both the practical challenges and the evidence gap, highlighting the urgent need for targeted research, better resources, and structured support to help professionals effectively guide glioma patients in their physical activities.

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