Longitudinal associations among physical activity, inflammatory markers, and quality of life in patients with head and neck cancer

Abstract

Introduction The aim of this study was to explore the associations among physical activity (PA), inflammatory markers, and quality of life (QoL) from preradiotherapy to 1‐year postradiotherapy for patients with head and neck cancer (HNC). Methods This was an observational longitudinal study. Mixed‐effect models incorporating within‐subject correlation were used to examine the relationship among the three key variables. Results Aerobically active patients had significantly lower levels of sTNFR2 (but not other inflammatory markers) than aerobically inactive patients. Being aerobically active and lower inflammation were independently associated with better total QoL scores after adjusting covariates. The trend was similar for patients engaged in strength exercises. Conclusions Being aerobically active was associated with lower inflammation as represented by sTNFR2 but not with other inflammatory markers. Higher PA (aerobic and strength) and lower inflammation were linked to better QoL. More research is warranted to validate the association among PA, inflammation, and QoL.