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Supportive Care in Cancer

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01-04-2015 | Original Article

A clinic-supported group exercise program for head and neck cancer survivors: managing cancer and treatment side effects to improve quality of life

Authors: Lauren C. Capozzi, Kevin R. Boldt, Harold Lau, Lisa Shirt, Barry Bultz, S. Nicole Culos-Reed

Published in: Supportive Care in Cancer | Issue 4/2015

Abstract

Purpose

The purpose of the evaluation of this clinic-supported 12-week progressive strength-training program was to assess the feasibility and impact of an exercise intervention for head and neck cancer (HNC) survivors.

Methods

Recruitment and adherence feasibility, as well as health-related fitness measures and patient-reported symptom management were assessed on the 21 HNC survivors in the exercise program.

Results

Overall, this program was feasible, as indicated by recruitment, adherence, and safety outcomes. Survivors experienced improved acute symptom management over the period of one exercise class for tiredness, depression, anxiety, drowsiness, and overall wellbeing. Over the course of the program, survivors experienced significant improvements in physical functioning outcomes and improved management of tiredness and fatigue.

Conclusions

A progressive strength-training program is feasible for HNC survivors on and following treatment and is associated with improved acute and chronic fitness outcomes and symptom management.

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Title: A clinic-supported group exercise program for head and neck cancer survivors: managing cancer and treatment side effects to improve quality of life
Authors: Lauren C. Capozzi
Kevin R. Boldt
Harold Lau
Lisa Shirt
Barry Bultz
S. Nicole Culos-Reed
Publication date: 01-04-2015
Publisher: Springer Berlin Heidelberg
Published in: Supportive Care in Cancer / Issue 4/2015
Print ISSN: 0941-4355
Electronic ISSN: 1433-7339
DOI: https://doi.org/10.1007/s00520-014-2436-4

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Abstract

Purpose

Methods

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Conclusions

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