Feasibility of an exercise programme in elderly patients undergoing allogeneic stem cell transplantation - a pilot study

Research output: Contribution to journalResearch articleContributedpeer-review

Contributors

  • M. K. Schuler - , Department of Internal Medicine I, University Cancer Centre Dresden, University Hospital Carl Gustav Carus Dresden (Author)
  • B. Hornemann - , University Hospital Carl Gustav Carus Dresden, University Cancer Center (UCC) (Author)
  • C. Pawandenat - , University Hospital Carl Gustav Carus Dresden (Author)
  • M. Kramer - , University Hospital Carl Gustav Carus Dresden (Author)
  • L. Hentschel - , University Cancer Centre Dresden, University Hospital Carl Gustav Carus Dresden (Author)
  • H. Beck - , University Center for Orthopedics, Trauma and Plastic Surgery, University Hospital Carl Gustav Carus Dresden (Author)
  • P. Kasten - , University Hospital Carl Gustav Carus Dresden, University Center for Orthopedics, Trauma and Plastic Surgery (OUPC) (Author)
  • S. Singer - , University Medical Center Mainz (Author)
  • M. Schaich - , Rems-Murr-Kliniken (Author)
  • G. Ehninger - , University Hospital Carl Gustav Carus Dresden, Department of internal Medicine I, University Cancer Center (UCC) (Author)
  • U. Platzbecker - , Department of Internal Medicine I, University Hospital Carl Gustav Carus Dresden (Author)
  • J. Schetelig - , Department of Internal Medicine I, University Hospital Carl Gustav Carus Dresden, DKMS Clinical Trials Unit (Author)
  • M. Bornhäuser - , Department of Internal Medicine I, University Hospital Carl Gustav Carus Dresden (Author)

Abstract

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.

Details

Original languageEnglish
Pages (from-to)839-848
Number of pages10
JournalEuropean journal of cancer care
Volume25
Issue number5
Publication statusPublished - 1 Sept 2016
Peer-reviewedYes

External IDs

PubMed 26526286

Keywords

ASJC Scopus subject areas

Keywords

  • exercise, older person, quality of life, stem cell transplantation