Background: Cancer-related fatigue (CRF) is a complex and multifaceted notion. However, the majority of cancer patients are unaware of the fatigue that is associated with the disease itself or its treatment.
Objective: This study designed as a Randomized Controlled Trial (RCT) and focused on clarifying the impact of physical exercise on functional activities and fatigue levels in various types of cancer patients.
Methods: Fifty patients were randomly selected and then divided into two groups of cancer patients from Augusta Victoria Hospital: an exercise group and a control group. The exercise group participated in aerobic and strengthening exercises, while the control group maintained their usual activities. Both groups were assessed before and after the intervention using the BFI, FIM, and TUG to measure fatigue, functional independence, and mobility, respectively.
Results: The study found significant improvements in the experimental group, with fatigue levels decreasing (BFI score from 67.3 to 50.8, p = 0.002), functional independence increasing (FIM score from 72 to 87, p < 0.001), and enhanced mobility (TUG time from 22.08 to 15.9 seconds, p < 0.001). The control group showed minimal changes, with a slight increase in fatigue (BFI score from 55 to 56, p = 0.004) and no significant changes in FIM or TUG scores (FIM p-value was 0.591 and the TUG p-value was 0.426).
Discussion: Therapeutic exercise is crucial for cancer patients, alleviating fatigue, improve functional independence, and improving mobility, ultimately enhancing overall health and quality of life.
Type of Study:
Research |
Subject:
General Received: 2024/12/5 | Accepted: 2025/01/21 | Published: 2025/07/13