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Feasibility of an exercise programme in elderly patients undergoing allogeneic stem cell transplantation – a pilot study
Author(s) -
Schuler M.K.,
Hornemann B.,
Pawandenat C.,
Kramer M.,
Hentschel L.,
Beck H.,
Kasten P.,
Singer S.,
Schaich M.,
Ehninger G.,
Platzbecker U.,
Schetelig J.,
Bornhäuser M.
Publication year - 2016
Publication title -
european journal of cancer care
Language(s) - English
Resource type - Journals
SCImago Journal Rank - 0.849
H-Index - 67
eISSN - 1365-2354
pISSN - 0961-5423
DOI - 10.1111/ecc.12400
Subject(s) - medicine , physical therapy , quality of life (healthcare) , transplantation , adverse effect , hematopoietic stem cell transplantation , population , surgery , nursing , environmental health
It has been demonstrated that physical exercise benefits younger patients undergoing allogeneic haematopoietic stem cell transplantation (allo‐ HSCT ). We designed a prospective pilot study investigating whether elderly patients (>60 years) would also be able to participate in such a programme. It consisted of physiotherapist‐supervised alternating endurance and resistance workouts on 6 of 7 days a week. Sixteen consecutive patients undergoing allo‐ HSCT were enrolled into the study. The median age was 64.5 years. Twelve patients participated in the programme until the time of discharge (75%) from the transplant unit. Therefore, the predefined criteria regarding feasibility were met. The reason for drop out was transplantation associated mortality in all patients ( n = 4). Adherence was very good with a median of 85% attended training sessions. No adverse events were recorded. The endurance capacity dropped by 7% and lower extremity strength improved by 2% over time. Quality of life decreased during the study period, with global health being significantly worse at the time of discharge. In conclusion, a combined and intensified strength and endurance exercise programme is feasible and safe in a population of elderly patients undergoing allo‐ HSCT . Further research should focus on exploring effect sizes of such an intervention by conducting randomised controlled trials.