Avancini A, Borsati A, Trestini I, Tregnago D, Belluomini L, Sposito M, Rota M, Insolda J, Schena F, Milella M, Pilotto S. Exploring the feasibility of a combined exercise program for patients with advanced lung or pancreatic cancer.
Asia Pac J Oncol Nurs 2023;
10:100298. [PMID:
38197044 PMCID:
PMC10772206 DOI:
10.1016/j.apjon.2023.100298]
[Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/26/2023] [Accepted: 08/18/2023] [Indexed: 01/11/2024] Open
Abstract
Objective
This study aims to assess the safety, feasibility, and potential benefits of a combined aerobic and resistance exercise intervention for patients diagnosed with advanced pancreatic or lung cancer.
Methods
A prospective, single-arm study was conducted, enrolling patients with advanced lung or pancreatic cancer. Participants engaged in a 12-week exercise intervention comprising personalized bi-weekly aerobic and resistance training tailored to individual baseline conditions. The primary study outcomes focused on safety (absence of serious adverse events) and feasibility. Secondary outcomes included assessments of functional capacity using the "Six minutes walking test", strength measured through handgrip and leg press tests, anthropometric measures including body mass index and waist-hip ratio, quality of life (QoL), and changes in blood parameters.
Results
The study involved twelve patients (mean age 57.66 ± 7.40 years), with seven having pancreatic cancer and five having lung cancer. The recruitment rate was 50%, and assessment adherence was 100%, with an 84% adherence to the exercise program and no dropouts. No exercise-related adverse events were recorded, while three non-severe, non-exercise-related adverse events were observed: treatment-related dermatitis (Grade 2), axillary lymphadenopathy (Grade 2), and migraine (Grade 1). Significant enhancements in functional capacity, emotional well-being, and social functioning within the QoL domains were observed. Anthropometric measures, specifically waist-hip ratio and body mass index, remained stable.
Conclusions
The findings suggest that a tailored 12-week exercise intervention is both feasible and safe for patients with advanced lung or pancreatic cancer. This intervention appears to enhance functional capacity, specific aspects of QoL, and contribute to maintaining body weight.
Collapse