Empirical data support the benefits of physical activity for women who have been diagnosed with breast cancer. However, the experience of exercising during or after breast cancer treatment has not been fully documented. The purpose of the researchers in this study was to provide an in-depth description of women's experiences with exercising during or after their breast cancer treatments, specifically, their perceptions of the benefits they experienced as a result of participation in an individualized exercise program that included cardiovascular and resistance activities. Forty-five women who had been diagnosed with breast cancer within the previous two years were recruited from two oncology practices after electing to enroll in an exercise program. Data were collected between September 2006 and August 2007 through in-depth interviews at various stages in the exercise program and analyzed simultaneously using thematic analysis methods. Whether in treatment or post-treatment, women attributed psychological, physical, and social benefits to their participation in the exercise program. Participants credited the program with helping them to feel better, regain control over their bodies and their lives, manage their emotions, and prepare them to live healthfully going forward. These results provide insight into the specific ways women experience exercise during and after their breast cancer treatments.
Adolescent and young adult smokers and nonsmokers perceive that there are several methods of using e-cigarettes for quitting and are aware of both positive and negative aspects of the product. Future research is needed to determine the role of e-cigarettes for smoking cessation in this population.
This article explores the childbirth expectations and sources of information of first-time mothers using a qualitative descriptive method. A purposive sample of low-to moderate-income nulliparous women (N 5 7) from an urban area in Connecticut were interviewed in their third trimester of pregnancy. The themes that emerged touched on mode of birth, supportive resources, emotional and physical expectations, control, and health of the baby. No one participated in childbirth education classes, and instead cited mostly informal sources of information such as family, friends, the Internet, and television. In light of advanced technology and increased access to on-demand information, the results of this study should remind healthcare providers to discuss childbirth expectations and the sources of information with patients.
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