Efficacy of breast cancer appeals for promoting physical activity

Background. We investigated the efficacy of breast cancer prevention messages in increasing intentions to be more active. Method. We randomly assigned 200 females aged 30–60 years to a breast cancer and physical activity message or a cardiovascular disease and physical activity message. Results. The breast cancer message was more believable and slightly more motivating to increase physical activity than the cardiovascular disease message, and 72% of respondents in the breast cancer condition increased their intention to increase their physical activity. Conclusion. The benefit of reducing the risk of breast cancer can be used to motivate increased physical activity in women.