Congress Abstracts 2003

135

QUALITY OF LIFE AND FATIGUE IN LUNG CANCER PATIENTS: DOES A SEATED EXERCISE PROGRAM MAKE A DIFFERENCE? Lauri John, PhD, RN, CNS, University of Texas at Austin School of Nursing, Austin, TX.

Problem/Purpose: Fatigue has frequently been implicated as a distressing effect of lung cancer and its treatment that negatively affects quality of life (QOL). Studies have shown that walking programs reduce fatigue and improve general well-being in women with breast cancer; however, there are no studies of the effects of modified exercise programs on QOL in lung cancer patients, whose participation in a walking program might be limited due to climate, safety, and/or scheduling concerns. The purpose of this pilot study is to determine the feasibility of a major research study to determine the effects of a seated exercise program on QOL and fatigue in lung cancer patients and to explore strategies used by lung cancer patients to maintain or promote QOL.

Framework: Roy’s Adaptation Model.

Design: Randomized clinical trial with repeated measures.

Setting: Participants will be recruited from oncology clinics in central Texas. The study will take place in participants’ homes.

Sample: Twenty lung cancer patients who are beginning outpatient chemotherapy with or without radiation therapy and are medically able to participate in a low to moderate intensity seated exercise program.

Methods: All participants will receive standard instructions about fatigue management, maintain a daily activity diary, and complete the Functional Assessment of Cancer Therapy-Lung (FACT-L), which measures QOL in lung cancer patients, and the Fatigue Subscale of the FACT, which measures fatigue every two weeks for three months. Participants randomized to the intervention group will be given a videotape of a low to moderate intensity seated exercise program and individualized instructions about how to modify exercise intensity. They will be encouraged to perform the exercises at least three times per week. Qualitative data regarding all participants’ perceptions of QOL and fatigue, as well as strategies used by lung cancer patients to maintain or promote QOL will be assessed at the end of the three-month study period.

Implications: Inclusion of a tailored exercise program in chemotherapy teaching for patients with lung cancer may improve quality of life, reduce fatigue, and improve treatment tolerance.