Effects of physical activity on the quality of life in Taiwanese lung cancer patients receiving active treatment or off treatment

Abstract

BACKGROUND:: Lung cancer is the leading cause of cancer deaths in the world. Physical activity can enhance the quality of life (QOL) of cancer patients. However, the best timing according to cancer therapy to implement physical activities for lung cancer patients is not yet clear. OBJECTIVE:: The purpose of our study was to examine the relationship between physical activity and QOL in different cancer-treatment periods among lung cancer patients. METHODS:: This study used a cross-sectional design. Instruments included the Functional Assessment of Cancer Therapy-Lung Cancer and the Godin Leisure-Time Exercise Questionnaire. RESULTS:: In total, 185 patients participated in this study, and results showed that only 25% of participants achieved recommended physical-activity guidelines. Of all patients, 50.3% engaged in light physical activity, such as walking. During active-treatment periods, lung cancer patients who engaged in light or moderate activity had significantly higher scores for the overall QOL than did those who were completely sedentary. However, during off-treatment periods, there were no significant differences in the overall QOL with different activity levels. CONCLUSIONS:: The QOL may be improved by engaging in light or moderate physical activity during active-treatment periods among lung cancer patients. IMPLICATIONS FOR PRACTICE:: It is important for healthcare providers to consider promoting physical activity based on different cancer treatments to improve the QOL of Taiwanese lung cancer patients. Copyright © 2013 Wolters Kluwer Health | Lippincott Williams & Wilkins.