Does Physical Activity Improve Quality of Life in Cancer Patients Undergoing Chemotherapy?

Abstract

Background: Improved cancer treatments have resulted in prolonged survival. Nevertheless, tumor symptoms and side effects still compromise physical activity and quality of life (QoL). Patients and Methods: We conducted an anonymous survey among cancer patients undergoing chemotherapy using standardized questionnaires: the ‘Freiburger Fragebogen zur körperlichen Aktivität' (Freiburg Questionnaire on Physical Activity) and European Organisation for Research and Treatment of Cancer (EORTC) QLQ-C30. Two main questions were addressed: were there differences (1) in physical activity and QoL between patients who do not believe that sport could improve their QoL and those who believe it could (group A vs. B); and (2) in QoL between patients with a total activity (TA) < 18 metabolic equivalent of task (MET) h/week and those with a TA of ≥ 18 MET h/week (group C vs. D)? Results: 276 of 400 questionnaires were completed. Groups A and B were balanced in terms of baseline characteristics. Group A suffered significantly more from fatigue and pain; group B reported higher levels of global health status (GHS) and TA. Groups C and D differed in gender distribution, age, and educational background. Group D had significantly higher levels of GHS, group C suffered more from fatigue, pain, and appetite loss. Conclusion: Physical activity correlates with a better QoL of cancer patients undergoing chemotherapy.

Can Physical Exercise Prevent Chemotherapy-Induced Peripheral Neuropathy in Patients With Cancer? A Systematic Review and Meta-analysis

“…In this sense, the results of the metaanalysis support, from a quantitative point of view, the evidence for the benefits of physical exercise in improving quality of life when performed at the start of chemotherapy. All included studies support this conclusion, in line with other authors 4,61,62 . These results should be viewed with caution because none of the four included studies were free of bias.…”

Effect of Wellness Education on Quality of Life of Patients With Non–Small Cell Lung Cancer Treated With First-Line Icotinib and on Their Family Caregivers

“…Despite the probable benefits of physical activity in cancer patients, 24-26 a recent preliminary clinical investigation performed by our group in our patient population showed that <2% of 410 patients with incurable lung cancer and 8% of their caregivers engage in regular physical activity. Considering disability, social behavior, and economic costs associated with lung cancer, we advocate paying close attention to the development of nonpharmacological approaches that include education and mindfulness.…”