Quality of life in cancer survivors before and after multimodal educational and physiotherapy programme: a pilot feasibility study

Over the past three decades, advances in diagnostic and therapeutic options have led to an increase in the number of cancer survivors. After completing their cancer treatment, general practitioners will have to care for these patients suffering from many long-term effects that decrease quality of life.

In this pilot study, we aimed assess whether a newly developed multimodal and interprofessional programme does reflect the needs of survivors and can improve quality of life.

A group programme of up to 15 cancer survivors included in a once weekly educational (nutrition, healthy lifestyle, long-term effects) and physical therapy programme for 10 weeks was tested. Before and after the training, we assessed quality of life (EQ-5DL, scale 0-100) and the distress thermometer (score 1-10). Additional outcomes included the overall feasibility, adherence and physical activity of participants, satisfaction and patient needs (Likert scale, strongly disagree – strongly agree).

Out of 34 contacted patients, 13 were included, with 10 participants attending all or most sessions with a completion rate of 77%. Adherence was high (69% completing ≥80% of the sessions). At baseline the mean EQ-5DL was 70.56 (SD±11.02) and after the programme 77.06 (SD±10.51) (p =0.1328). There was a significant reduction in psychological distress (6.556 (SD±1.49) to 4.813 (SD±1.81) (p=0.0153)) and an improved physical fitness (increased sit-to-stand test repetitions (p=0.0159)). The sit-to-stand test speed remained unchanged (p=0.0773). Satisfaction was high and patients reported increased motivation and benefits from interactions with other survivors (Figure 1).

Our pilot trial during the implementation of a multimodal educational and physical therapy programme showed the feasibility and high adherence of cancer survivors to the programme. Self-perceived quality of life increased and the satisfaction was high.Figure 1:

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