Best Practice Case Studies-Exercise for Cancer Patients

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The study "FiGHTINGF!T" investigates the effects of a supervised exercise program on adolescents and young adults (AYA) undergoing cancer treatment. The research, a randomized controlled trial, involved 43 participants aged 15-25, divided into an exercise group (EG) and a control group (CG) receiving usual care. Over 10 weeks, the EG participated in bi-weekly exercise sessions, including aerobic and strength training, while the CG received general physical activity advice.<br /><br />Results showed no significant differences between groups regarding fitness declines. However, the EG showed notable improvements in muscle strength and quality of life (QOL). The most significant enhancements were seen in leg press strength, chest press strength, and push-up capacity. Despite these improvements, both groups showed consistent endurance levels, with the CG not demonstrating significant changes in physical function.<br /><br />Interestingly, the CG reported significant mental health improvements, particularly in anxiety levels, without the physical benefits seen in the EG. Both groups exhibited an increase in body fat percentage, correlating with high sedentary time, and the EG reported increased fatigue.<br /><br />The study highlights that supervised exercise can improve strength and QOL in AYA cancer patients, potentially mitigating treatment-related decline. Yet, the CG's unexpected stabilization of physical functions and improvements in mental health suggest the psychological benefits derived from structured involvement in an exercise study.<br /><br />Overall, the research suggests incorporating exercise in AYA cancer care as it stabilizes or improves physical and mental health aspects. The study acknowledges limitations like the influence of external motivators and the COVID-19 pandemic on compliance and data integrity, suggesting a need for further exploration of independent exercise regimens combined with frequent monitoring.

Meta Tag

Edition 3rd Edition

Related Case 3rd Edition, CASE 42

Topic Oncology

Keywords

3rd Edition, CASE 42

3rd Edition

Oncology

FiGHTINGF!T

adolescents

young adults

cancer treatment

exercise program

muscle strength

quality of life

mental health

randomized controlled trial

AYA cancer care