UW WELL-FIT: the impact of supervised exercise programs on physical capacity and quality of life in individuals receiving treatment for cancer.

PURPOSE

The purpose of this study is to report physical function and quality of life data collected from cancer patients who participated in a supervised exercise intervention at the UW WELL-FIT program over 5 years.

METHODS

Five hundred seventy-five participants from 18 to 84 years of age (mean, 54 years) were assessed and enrolled in the 24-session program while currently receiving treatment for cancer. Twice weekly, they participated in aerobic exercise, resistance training and stretching exercises for 1 h each time. Pre- and post-assessments were performed to document changes in physical function, while the short form-36 (SF-36) survey assessed changes in quality of life.

RESULTS

Three hundred eighty-six participants completed the program, while 171 withdrew at some point over the 24 sessions. Pre- and post-cardiovascular assessments were performed on 305 (78.4%) participants. There was a significant increase in the maximum work rate attained and significant decreases in heart rate response, systolic blood pressure and rate of perceived exertion at the submaximal level (p < 0.01). The summary component scales of SF-36 (physical and mental) were significantly improved as well as all eight subscales (p < 0.01).

CONCLUSIONS

The data collected from this program indicate that a comprehensive physical activity program involving cardiovascular exercise, resistance training and flexibility can significantly improve physical function and various quality of life indices for individuals undergoing treatment for cancer.