Abstract
Purpose: To assess the quality and accuracy of cancer-related physical activity (PA) and sedentary behaviour (SB) information provided on reputable cancer websites from English speaking countries. Design: Cross-sectional. Sample: Reputable cancer websites from English speaking countries. Methods: A list of reputable cancer websites (N = 11) was generated from countries that speak English primarily (e.g., Canada, Australia). These websites were assessed for quality and accuracy based on a detailed coding framework (e.g., PA guidelines, PA and cancer prevention). Frequencies and descriptive statistics were derived for website characteristics of interest. Findings: Websites offered adequate cancer-related PA information. All sites reviewed within this study offered PA information for cancer prevention and cancer survivorship. However, while 81% of the sites presented information for SB and cancer prevention, very little information was presented for SB and cancer survivorship, with only 18.2% of the information being offered. Conclusions: The quality and accuracy of cancer-related PA and SB information presented on leading cancer websites is variable. Further information is warranted in the areas of SB, resistance training, and behavior change strategies. Websites have considerable value as knowledge translation tools and, therefore, presenting evidence-based information that is easy to understand may positively impact the health and behaviours of cancer populations, as well as the general population.
