P15.19.A DUTCH HEALTHCARE PROFESSIONALS’ EXPERIENCES, PERSPECTIVES, AND BARRIERS TOWARDS PHYSICAL ACTIVITY PROMOTION IN GLIOMA PATIENTS

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Abstract BACKGROUND To bridge the gap between well-recognized benefits of physical activity (PA) and its practical implementation for glioma patients specifically, we investigated healthcare professionals’ experiences, perspectives, and barriers in promoting PA for this patient group. MATERIAL AND METHODS We developed an online survey consisting of 25 questions for healthcare professionals involved in the care of glioma patients in the Netherlands. The survey included open- and closed-ended questions, the latter of which were based on Likert scales (1-5). The survey was initially distributed via email by the Dutch Neuro-Oncological Society (LWNO), and later distributed by individual healthcare professionals. Participants provided online informed consent. RESULTS A total of 55 healthcare professionals from 20 different centers completed the survey, with neurology and nursing being the most represented specialties. The majority of professionals (58%) indicated that they often or very often receive questions about PA throughout all stages of the disease. These questions mainly focused on whether PA was allowed and what types of activities were appropriate. In addition to responding to patient inquiries, 76% of professionals reported that they often or very often proactively provide PA advice. This advice typically involved low-intensity activities, such as daily walking, but did not refer to any established PA guidelines. In addition to this advice, professionals often highlighted the benefits of PA, including improved quality of life, reduced symptoms, and better treatment adherence. Nonetheless, opinions on the strength of evidence supporting the effectiveness of PA were mixed, with 62% of the professionals remaining neutral. Commonly reported drawbacks of PA in glioma patients included concerns about overexertion and potential feelings of inadequacy among patients who are unable to follow advice. Despite these concerns, PA was generally considered safe when tailored to patients’ abilities. Frequently reported barriers to promoting PA included a lack of information materials (37%), limited knowledge among professionals (33%), and limited referral opportunities (27%). Importantly, 89% of the professionals supported the integration of PA into glioma care and 56% expressed a need for specific guidelines to help facilitate its implementation. CONCLUSION PA is a frequent topic of discussion between patients and healthcare professionals, but the advice provided could improve. Developing specific guidelines for glioma patients may help address common barriers to promoting PA and support professionals in providing more tailored advice. As a crucial first step toward developing such guidelines, future research should focus on evaluating targeted PA interventions.

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