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Feasibility and preliminary effects of resistance training and nutritional supplements during versus after radiotherapy in patients with head and neck cancer: A pilot randomized trial
Author(s) -
Sandmæl Jon Arne,
Bye Asta,
Solheim Tora Skeidsvoll,
Stene Guro Birgitte,
Thorsen Lene,
Kaasa Stein,
Lund JoÅsmund,
Oldervoll Line Merethe
Publication year - 2017
Publication title -
cancer
Language(s) - English
Resource type - Journals
SCImago Journal Rank - 3.052
H-Index - 304
eISSN - 1097-0142
pISSN - 0008-543X
DOI - 10.1002/cncr.30901
Subject(s) - medicine , randomized controlled trial , radiation therapy , physical therapy , head and neck cancer , weight loss , cancer , body mass index , clinical trial , rehabilitation , obesity
BACKGROUND Patients with head and neck cancer (HNC) experience involuntary weight loss that has a negative impact on physical function, morbidity, and survival. The objective of the current study was to evaluate the feasibility of an exercise and nutrition intervention during radiotherapy (RT) compared with after RT, and to examine preliminary effects on skeletal muscle mass. METHODS Patients with HNC were randomized to an exercise and nutrition intervention during RT (EN‐DUR) or after RT (EN‐AF). The EN‐DUR intervention was conducted at a hospital and the EN‐AF intervention took place at a rehabilitation center. The interventions consisted of progressive resistance training (PRT) and oral nutritional supplements (ONS). Feasibility outcomes were tracked weekly and muscle mass was measured by computed tomography scans before and after RT and at 2 months follow‐up. RESULTS Of the 50 eligible patients, 41 (82%) agreed to participate. 90% of patients completed the EN‐DUR intervention and the adherence to PRT and ONS was 81% and 57%, respectively. 52% of patients attended the EN‐AF intervention and adherence to PRT and ONS was 94% and 76%, respectively. The EN‐DUR demonstrated a trend toward mitigating loss of muscle mass during RT and the EN‐AF demonstrated a similar trend after RT. No difference in muscle mass was detected between the groups from baseline to week 14. CONCLUSIONS An exercise and nutrition intervention is feasible for patients with HNC during RT, and the intervention is potentially effective in mitigating loss of muscle mass both during and after RT. Future trials should assess the feasibility and effects of extended interventions during and after treatment. Cancer 2017;123:4440‐8 . © 2017 American Cancer Society .