Comparison of mental health and physical fitness of mentally disabled people suffering from cancer participating in a nine-month physical activity program.

Abstract

This study compared mental health and physical fitness in individuals with intellectual disabilities and cancer following a 9-month physical activity progra basic level basketball and football exercises, simple abdominal exercises, educational games. Using a pre test/post-test design, we evaluated 157 participants (aged 18-25) in Çanakkale. Measurements included skinfold thickness (biceps: 7.42±2.9cm to 10.58±6.4cm; triceps: 12.75±5.4cm to 16.25±8.6cm) and sit-and-reach flexibility tests. Results showed significant improvements in body composition (p<0.05) and mental health (p=0.001), including reduced depression (α=0.85), anxiety, and enhanced quality of life (α=0.71), while total weight remained stable (69.58±8.8kg to 70.08±10.1kg). The findings demonstrate that structured exercise programs effectively enhance both physical and mental health outcomes in this population, highlighting the importance of incorporating regular physical activity into weekly schedules for individuals with intellectual disabilities and cancer.