Exploring adapted water polo: a feasibility study on improving psychosocial recovery in women post-breast cancer treatment

Abstract

This study aimed to evaluate the feasibility and acceptability of an adapted water polo programme (Aqua polo) for women following breast cancer treatment. Exploratory secondary objectives were to examine changes in cancer-related fatigue (CRF), quality of life, post-traumatic growth, physical function and participants’ psychosocial experiences. The intervention was conducted in a municipal swimming pool within a renowned local club, as part of a community-based research collaboration between a cancer center and a sport psychology laboratory. A 16-week intervention was implemented, with participants engaging in structured weekly sessions to evaluate both physical and psychosocial outcomes. Fifteen participants took part in weekly 2-hour Aqua polo sessions, supervised by a multidisciplinary team. A mixed-methods approach was used to assess feasibility (session adherence), physical improvements (aerobic capacity, muscle mass), and psychosocial dimensions, including CRF (R-PFS), quality of life (QLQ BR23), post-traumatic growth (PTG-I), and relational dynamics within the sporting environment (through semi-structured interviews). Quantitative data were analyzed using descriptive statistics and mixed linear models; qualitative interviews were coded inductively using grounded theory principles and NVivo software. The programme achieved a high adherence rate, with 87% of participants attending at least 60% of the sessions. Exploratory analyses showed increases in aerobic capacity ( p  = 0.009), muscle mass ( p  = 0.01) and quality of life ( p  = 0.04), whereas no significant changes were observed in cancer-related fatigue. Participants described positive psychosocial experiences, including greater self-confidence, renewed competence and improved body image. Qualitative findings highlighted the importance of social interactions, team cohesion and the coach–athlete relationship in fostering engagement and perceived psychosocial recovery. This feasibility study demonstrates that an adapted water polo programme is feasible and well accepted by women following breast cancer treatment. Exploratory findings suggest potential benefits for physical function and psychosocial well-being, while supporting the development of future adequately powered controlled studies evaluating team-based aquatic interventions in cancer rehabilitation. https://clinicaltrials.gov/study/NCT04235946 , identifier: NCT04235946. French national registry identifier: ID-RCB 2019-A03003-54.