From breast cancer patient to teammate: The role of exercise group identity in enhancing well-being.

PURPOSE: Numerous studies have found evidence of the link between physical exercise and improved well-being in breast cancer patients. However, there is little research on physical exercise in a group setting that examines the (re)configuration of social identities and their relationship with well-being among these patients. The study aimed to analyze the configuration of cancer patient identity and the change in its salience when a new social identification as a member of a physical exercise group is incorporated in self-concept, and how this new identity could strengthen the perception of well-being.

METHOD: In this qualitative study, eighty-five female breast cancer patients participated in eleven focus groups. The narratives were qualitatively analyzed and assessed using conventional qualitative content analysis and Graneheim and Lundman's approach; systematic coding was done with ATLAS.ti software.

RESULTS: The analysis revealed three main themes: 1) negative social identity: "I'm a cancer patient", 2) new positive social identity: "I'm a member of a physical exercise group", and 3) group cohesion and well-being.

CONCLUSIONS: This study evidenced the role of regular physical exercise implemented in group settings as a psychosocial intervention that provides an added value beyond preventing and managing the side effects of pharmacological treatments. By acting as a structured support system, the group environment enhances patients' well-being. Therefore, healthcare systems should offer accessible, supervised, and tailored group physical exercise alongside pharmacological treatments led by multidisciplinary teams, where oncology nursing plays a pivotal role in helping patients transition beyond the 'sick identity'.