Stomas are created when structures associated with elimination are removed, usually as a result of cancer. The remaining body part is then diverted through the abdominal wall, where it discharges body waste into an externally-attached pouch. Such exposure of a previously hidden organ and elimination process profoundly changes a person’s physical and emotional well-being.

Exercise improves wellbeing after cancer but there are distinct impediments for this group that are not considered in exercise guidelines. These include functional issues related to pouch placement, fear of herniation, and embarrassment about potential exposure of pouch contents during vigorous movement. Yet an inactive lifestyle compounds the already heightened risk of further chronic conditions (e.g., heart disease, diabetes, cancer recurrence) of this vulnerable group.

This project will lessen this risk by making physical activity work for people with stomas. The project team will test a telehealth-delivered, stoma-specific physical activity program, establishing whether physical activity is feasible, acceptable and safe for this group.