Effects of an exercise intervention for patients with advanced inoperable lung cancer undergoing chemotherapy: A randomized clinical trial

Objective Exercise can improve treatment-related side effects, quality of life, and function in patients with various types of cancer; however, more evidence is needed for patients with advanced inoperable lung cancer. Material and methods We randomized 218 patients with advanced inoperable lung cancer to a 12-week supervised, structured exercise training program (aerobic, strength, and relaxation training) twice weekly versus usual care. Primary outcome was change in maximal oxygen uptake (VO2 peak). Secondary outcomes were muscle strength, functional capacity, forced expiratory volume in 1 s, health-related quality of life, anxiety, and depression. Results There was no significant difference between the intervention and control groups in VO2 peak. There was a significant improvement in muscle strength. There was also a significant difference between the two for social well-being (Functional Assessment of Cancer Therapy—Lung, FACT-L), anxiety, and depression. Conclusion There was a significant reduction in the level of anxiety and depression and a significant increase in all muscle strength outcomes in the intervention group compared to patients randomized to usual care. There was a significant difference between the groups for social well-being. The primary outcome did not show a significant improvement in VO2 peak. Based on our results, future patients with advanced inoperable lung cancer should be considered for supervised exercise during the course of their disease.