In a nutshell
This article looked at the potential benefits of following a structured exercise program after lung cancer surgery.
Some background
Lung cancer surgery often involves removing a part of the lung in order to remove the entire tumor. Patients undergoing such operations often have poor exercise tolerance and lung function after the procedure. This, compounded by additional treatments such as chemotherapy, may result in significantly hindered quality of life.
Physical fitness is often assessed by performing standardized tests, such as the six-minute walking distance (6MWD), which measures the total distance covered when walking on a straight surface for 6 minutes. Quality of life is more difficult to investigate, and is gauged by answering standardized questionnaires. Examples of such surveys include the Short Form 36 General Health Survey and the St. George's Respiratory Questionnaire.
Methods & findings
The present article analyzed whether a structured exercise program may improve outcomes such as quality of life, exercise tolerance and lung function in patients who underwent lung cancer surgery. Data was obtained from 3 previous studies which included a total of 178 patients. Participants were between 49 to 78 years old and 63% were male. In each of the 3 trials, one group of patients was assigned to a specific physical training program, while the other group received standard cancer care.
Results of the analysis showed that patients who received structured physical training had significantly increased exercise tolerance, as measured by the 6MWD test, without any safety concerns. There were no significant differences between the two groups in terms of quality of life (as measured by standardized questionnaires) or lung function measurements.
The bottom line
These results suggest that a structured physical training program improves exercise tolerance after lung cancer surgery.
The fine print
The 3 trials selected for this analysis employed different structured exercise programs, and together composed a rather small study group.
What’s next?
Consult with a professional regarding a suitable exercise regimen to improve exercise tolerance and quality of life after lung cancer surgery.
Published By :
Cancer Treatment Reviews
Date :
Nov 13, 2013
