Introduction
Cancer and its associated therapies can severely impact the physical and psychosocial functioning of adolescent and young adults (AYAs) aged 15-25yrs, both during treatment and well into survivorship. Structured, supervised physical activity after cancer treatment could be beneficial to the AYA population, though this cohort has received little scientific attention.
Aim
The aim of this trial was to determine if an individualised supervised group exercise program delivered for AYA cancer survivors would lead to positive improvements on the physical and psychosocial functioning of this cohort.
Methods
Fifty one (of a planned 60 accrual target) AYA cancer survivors enrolled in the prospective, single arm 12-week exercise program. The bi-weekly combined resistance and cardiovascular exercise program was conducted in a community based setting. Rigorous pre and post intervention assessments investigated variables including Vo2 peak, 1RM strength measures, functional tests, body composition and psychosocial evaluations. Changes over time were identified using t-tests and one-way ANOVA.
Results
Forty three AYAs completed the program. Results have demonstrated significant improvements in all 1RM strength measures (seated row, chest press and leg press) increasing by 17%, 28% and 43% respectively (p≤0.01). Significant improvements were also evident in push ups, sit ups and repeated sit to stands (p≤0.01). Subjectively reported fatigue, pain, social, emotional, role and physical functioning quality of life variables also improved significantly from baseline to post intervention (p≤0.05). No detectable change was evident in Vo2 peak over time.
Conclusion
A structured supervised exercise program is an effective intervention to improve physical fitness, functioning and self-reported quality of life in AYA cancer survivors. While the greatest objective benefits were evident in strength and functional fitness measures, the qualitative feedback provided perhaps the greatest insight into the magnitude of positive benefits this program provided to the cohort.