Exploring the impact of advanced cancer on walking

  • Research type

    Research Study

  • Full title

    Exploring the experiences and impact of mobility status changes in individuals living with advanced cancer: A longitudinal qualitative interview study

  • IRAS ID

    338834

  • Contact name

    Matthew Maddocks

  • Contact email

    matthew.maddocks@kcl.ac.uk

  • Sponsor organisation

    King's College London

  • Duration of Study in the UK

    0 years, 11 months, 25 days

  • Research summary

    This study aims to explore the impact of mobility (walking) changes in individuals and their caregivers facing advanced cancer. The key question is: How do changes in mobility affect the daily lives, relationships, and overall well-being of individuals and their carers in the context of advanced cancer? This research is crucial because advanced cancer often brings about significant physical and emotional challenges, and understanding how mobility changes influence various aspects of life can guide healthcare professionals in providing targeted support and interventions.
    The study investigates the experiences, strategies, and overall impact of mobility status due to advanced cancer. It aims to gain insights into the types of non-pharmacological interventions (e.g. exercise programmes) and self-management strategies (e.g. walking aids) that individuals may access during their cancer journey.
    Adults over 18 years diagnosed with advanced cancer (stages III-IV for solid tumours and specific haematological cancers) or caring for someone with advanced cancer are eligible. The study will include individuals from diverse backgrounds to ensure a comprehensive exploration of mobility loss experiences.
    The study will be conducted in England, with recruitment through local cancer support networks, social media, and one tertiary centre: King's College Hospital. This centre is actively involved in the UK Horizon funded INSPIRE project, focusing on palliative rehabilitation.
    This qualitative study involves two interviews per participant over an extended period. The interviews will be conducted by clinical academics. The duration of interviews will approximately be one hour. Participants will be asked to notify the study team about specific events (event triggers) that may impact their mobility, leading to a second interview to explore whether these changes have impacted on various aspects of daily life.

  • REC name

    South West - Frenchay Research Ethics Committee

  • REC reference

    24/SW/0052

  • Date of REC Opinion

    26 Apr 2024

  • REC opinion

    Further Information Favourable Opinion