Development and Acceptability of a Rebuilding Osteo Strength With Exercise (ROSE) Program for Women With Breast Cancer

Background: Women with breast cancer are more prone to bone loss, joint pain, and other musculoskeletal symptoms, especially those receiving aromatase inhibitors and/or undergoing ovarian suppression therapy. Bone and joint problems can affect their quality of life and treatment adherence. Thus, the management of bone health is of clinical importance for this population.Objective: This study aimed to systematically develop a multicomponent bone health management intervention for women with breast cancer and assess the acceptability of the intervention program.Methods: The Rebuilding Osteo Strength with Exercise (ROSE) program for women with breast cancer was developed based on biological mechanisms, patient needs, evidence-based practices, theories, and stakeholder consensus using the Medical Research Council framework. An open-pilot study and post-intervention interviews were conducted to assess the acceptability of the ROSE program.Results: The ROSE program consisted of 6 modules, which integrated progressive exercise, bone health education, and behavior change strategies. Eight eligible patients were recruited during the open-pilot study, and all participants considered the program acceptable. Six patients accepted the post-intervention interview. Four themes emerged from the post-intervention interview: perceived benefits of participating, barriers to adherence, facilitators to adherence, and suggestions for optimization.Conclusions: The ROSE program is an acceptable bone health intervention program for women with breast cancer. Future refinements will be made before efficacy testing.Trial registration: The study was retrospectively registered with the Chinese Clinical Trial Registry, registration number ChiCTR2300072208.