In a nutshell
The study evaluated the efficacy of sustained exercise training on improving physical functioning of long-term prostate cancer survivors.
Some background
Many of the treatments for prostate cancer can cause adverse effects on the physical functioning of the patients. Androgen deprivation therapy or ADT (a type of hormone therapy that lowers the amount of male sex hormones responsible for stimulating the growth of prostate cancer cells) may have important side effects due to changes in hormone levels, particularly causing psychological side effects. Also, radiotherapy can affect physical functioning by the damage it can cause to healthy tissues around the prostate gland (urinary bladder, nerves that control sexual function, bowel). Previous studies have reported that exercise and diet can reduce the risks associated with cancer treatments and can improve the overall health and outcomes of prostate cancer survivors.
Methods & findings
The study involved 100 long-term prostate cancer survivors (patients who survived for more than 5 years after their diagnosis) who had been treated with ADT and radiotherapy. Half of the patients were randomly assigned to a supervised exercise program (EX group) for 6 months, followed by another 6 months of a home-based maintenance program (patients were to exercise at home just like in EX program, but without supervision). The other half of patients served as a control group and was given printed educational material about physical activity to be used for the entire period of 12 months.
The main parameters evaluated were muscle strength and endurance to prolonged exercise (cardiovascular fitness), overall physical functioning and quality of life. Results showed that there was a significant difference between the groups in physical functioning across the 12 months of the study, with improved physical and emotional performance in the EX group compared to the control group.
The bottom line
In summary, sustained supervised exercise training in long-term prostate cancer survivors is more effective in improving physical functioning than educational materials.
The fine print
The study involved very few participants, who were followed up for a short period of time. Future larger studies are needed to confirm the findings of this research.
What’s next?
Consult with your doctor about supervised exercise programs in order to improve your physical performance.
Published By :
European Urology
Date :
Oct 03, 2013
