A recent study evaluated the impact of a 3-month home-based exercise and self-management program on physical function in patients after lung resection surgery. The randomized clinical trial, involving 116 participants from Australian hospitals, found no significant improvement in self-reported physical function among those who completed the program, compared to a control group receiving usual care. The primary outcome, measured by the EORTC QLQ-C30 physical functioning domain, showed a minimal difference of just 1.0 point.
However, the intervention group experienced notable improvements in secondary outcomes. Patients who participated in the home-based program demonstrated significantly better exercise capacity, as measured by the 6-minute walk test, and reported higher global quality of life and exercise self-efficacy. These improvements were observed at both 3- and 6-months post-surgery. Notably, some of these benefits were sustained well beyond the conclusion of the program.
The findings suggest that while the program did not enhance self-reported physical function, it positively impacted several key clinical measures. The study highlights the potential for home-based exercise programs to support lung cancer patients’ recovery and overall well-being, despite the challenges of measuring physical function post-surgery. Researchers recommend further consideration of implementing such programs into routine cancer care to improve quality of life and support long-term recovery for lung cancer patients.
Helena Bradbury, EMJ
Reference
Granger CL et al. Home-based exercise and self-management after lung cancer resection: A randomized clinical trial. JAMA Netw Open. 2024;7(12):e2447325.
