Exercise as a non-pharmacological intervention for the management of sleep disturbance in primary brain tumour survivors and their caregivers: A study protocol of a clinical trialKey Points:

Abstract

Background: Sleep disturbance is a highly prevalent and impactful symptom experienced by those adversely affected by primary brain tumours. Despite this, there is a lack of literature exploring appropriate options for the management of sleep disturbance in these populations. As such, more holistic and patient-centred approaches to address sleep disturbance are needed. Exercise presents itself as a viable option for managing sleep disturbances given its numerous health benefits, minimal costs, and acceptability, though the feasibility of its use in the context of primary brain tumours is unknown. Methods: Primary brain tumour survivors and their caregivers will enrol and participate in a supervised, eight-week exercise intervention delivered by telehealth. Feasibility will be assessed using predetermined study metrics, including eligibility, recruitment. and assessment completion rates. Acceptability will be assessed using retention to intervention rates, session attendance, and participant satisfaction. Sleep will be assessed both objectively, using ring sleep trackers, and subjectively, using questionnaires. Conclusion: This study will be the first to explore the feasibility and acceptability of exercise for the management of sleep disturbance in primary brain tumour survivors and their caregivers. If successful, this protocol will contribute to the development and implementation of appropriate strategies to manage sleep disturbance in these populations.

Keywords

• Sleep disturbance
• Primary brain tumour
• Caregivers
• Neuro-oncology
• Quality of life
• Exercise