THE EFFECTS OF AN 8-WEEK PULMONARY REHABILITATION PROGRAM IN PATIENTS WITH LUNG CANCER

Abstract

Background Lung cancer is one of the most diagnosed cancers and is the leading cause of cancer-related deaths worldwide. Patients experience an array of symptoms that may include dyspnea, fatigue, cough, and pain, all of which have an impact on physical function and health-related quality of life. Pulmonary rehabilitation assists patients to improve their respiratory function, exercise tolerance, and overall health-related quality of life. This research aims at investigating whether pulmonary rehabilitation has an impact on these factors in such patients. Materials and Methods Patient reported outcome measures, EORTC QLQ-C30 and QLQ-LC29 was used to evaluate the effects of an 8-week Pulmonary Rehabilitation program in patients diagnosed with lung cancer. Outcome measures were assessed pre and post the 8-week pulmonary rehabilitation program. Results A total of 14 patients completed the program: mean age 69; male 78.6%; disease stage n (%), I = 3 (21.4), III = 4 (28.6), IV = 7 (50.0%). Significant improvements were demonstrated in global health status/QoL (p=0.03), and lessening of symptoms including fatigue (p=0.044), dyspnea (p=0.018) and pain (p=0.013). Conclusion This study suggests that pulmonary rehabilitation should be promoted to improve physical/cognitive function as well as health-related quality of life throughout the disease trajectory in patients with lung cancer and other cancer diagnosis experiencing oncology-related pulmonary insufficiency. Based on the findings of this study, recommendations were suggested. These may inform future strategies to further improve patient experience and quality of care, ensuing better standards of care for all.

Keywords

• lung cancer
• pulmonary rehabilitation
• breathing exercises
• phy- sical activity
• health-related quality of life