Exercise Intervention Feasible for Patients with Metastatic Cancer

Strategic Insights -

Researchers at the University of Verona, Italy have conducted a study investigating the feasibility of an exercise intervention based on a patient-preferred delivery mode in patients with metastatic cancer. The study aimed to determine the feasibility and preliminary efficacy of a 3-month exercise program consisting of aerobic and resistance activities, performed twice a week, with the option to choose between home-based, personal training, or group-based delivery modes. The findings of the study suggest that a patient-preferred delivery mode exercise program is feasible in patients with metastatic cancer and may improve physical function and quality of life.

Key Takeaways:

  • The study recruited 44 patients with a confirmed diagnosis of metastatic cancer, with an 81% recruitment rate.
  • Twenty-eight patients chose the personal training program, 16 chose the home-based program, and none chose the group-based program.
  • Nine dropouts occurred (20%), 6 in the personal training program, and 3 in the home-based intervention.
  • The median attendance rate was 92%, adherence was 88%, tolerability was 100%, and 9 nonsevere adverse events were registered during the exercise sessions.
  • An increase in cardiorespiratory fitness (P < 0.001) and muscle strength (P < 0.01) were observed.
  • Quality of life improved, as measured by the EORTC QLQ C-30 questionnaire.
  • The study findings suggest that exercise programs tailored to individual preferences may improve physical function and quality of life in patients with metastatic cancer.

Statistics:

  • 44 patients with metastatic cancer were recruited for the study.
  • 81% recruitment rate.
  • 20% dropout rate.
  • 92% median attendance rate.
  • 88% adherence rate.
  • 100% tolerability rate.
  • 9 nonsevere adverse events were registered during exercise sessions.
  • Significant improvements in cardiorespiratory fitness (P < 0.001) and muscle strength (P < 0.01) were observed.
  • Quality of life improved, as measured by the EORTC QLQ C-30 questionnaire (specific scores not provided).

Sources:

  • A Feasibility Study Investigating an Exercise Program in Metastatic Cancer Based on the Patient-Preferred Delivery Mode. The Oncologist, 2024;29(6).
  • NewsRx. Researchers at University of Verona Report Findings in Metastatic Cancer (A Feasibility Study Investigating an Exercise Program in Metastatic Cancer Based on the Patient-Preferred Delivery Mode). Health & Medicine Week. August 15, 2025; p 6201.