Exercise Benefits Leukemia Patients

(Ivanhoe Newswire) -- Though it may seem counterintuitive, given that the most bothersome symptom of leukemia is extreme fatigue, a team of researchers has shown that physical activity can significantly improve symptoms of fatigue and depression, increase cardiovascular endurance and maintain quality of life for adult patients undergoing treatment for leukemia.

Ten patients undergoing treatment participated in the EQUAL (Exercise and Quality of Life in Leukemia/ Lymphoma Patients) study at the University of North Carolina, Chapel Hill, Department of Exercise and Sport Science and UNC Lineberger Comprehensive Cancer Center. Each patient was provided with specially-treated exercise equipment to minimize the risk of infection. Patients participated in individualized exercise sessions while in the hospital for the 3- to 5-week induction phase of leukemia treatment.

The exercise prescription included aerobic and resistance exercises, core exercises, and light stretches tailored to the patient's level of fitness and leukemia symptoms. Upon their discharge from the hospital, each patient received an aerobic-based exercise prescription for their two-week home recovery period.

Before and after the exercise program, the researchers measured resting heart rate, blood pressure and hemoglobin, body weight and height, body composition, cardiorespiratory fitness and muscular endurance. Researchers also administered psychological tests to assess fatigue, depression and quality of life. Blood samples were taken at baseline, mid, and at the conclusion of the study, and analyzed for biomarkers of inflammation.

"We found that the patients experienced significant reduction in total fatigue and depression scores, as well as improved cardiorespiratory endurance and maintenance of muscular endurance," Claudio Battaglini, Ph.D., assistant professor of exercise and sport science and UNC Lineberger member was quoted as saying.

"This is important because of the numerous side-effects related to cancer treatment, and particularly leukemia treatment, which requires confinement to a hospital room for 4-6 weeks to avoid the risk of infection,” he added. “We have demonstrated that these patients not only can complete an exercise program in the hospital but that they may receive both physiological and psychological benefits that could assist in their recovery."

A follow-up study, EQUAL phase II, is now in development. This study will consist of a randomized clinical-controlled trial to assess the effects of an individualized exercise prescription in acute leukemia patients vs. a group of leukemia patients receiving treatment with no exercise component. If the results are positive, the research team will develop a multi-site research program involving other cancer centers throughout North Carolina and the United States.

SOURCE:  Integrative Cancer Therapies, August 3, 2009

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