Physical activity and hematological cancer survivorship

As previously presented in other chapters of this book, exercise has been shown through large scale studies to be associated with significant improvements in physical and psychological parameters in patients with one of several different tumor types (Galvao et al. 2010; Schwartz and Winters-Stone 2009; Galvao et al. 2009; Segal et al. 2009; Courneya et al. 2008a, b; Ligibel et al. 2008; Courneya et al. 2007; Schmitz et al. 2005a; Fairey et al. 2005). In addition, well conducted systematic reviews of the literature that have explored the effects of exercise before, during, or after anticancer therapy have consistently shown positive outcomes to patients treated for solid tumors. Consistent findings include an overall reduction in fatigue, depression, anxiety, and distress, paired with positive changes in fitness parameters such as aerobic capacity and overall muscle function (Speck et al. 2010; Jones et al. 2006; McNeely et al. 2006; Markes et al. 2006; Schmitz et al. 2005; Galvao and Newton 2005). However, a relative paucity of data exists in the area of exercise interventions for adult patients with hematological malignancies. This chapter reviews the current literature regarding the administration of exercise in adult patients diagnosed with hematological cancer. The few exercise intervention studies conducted in patients with hematological cancers suggest that it is feasible to administer exercise to most patients and that exercise should be considered as an intervention to alleviate treatment-related symptoms. Yet, efficacy along with the appropriate mode, intensity, and frequency of exercise training in different types of hematological cancers are yet to be established and require further research.