Multidirectional Walking in Hematopoietic Stem Cell Transplant Patients.

Area of Science:

• Hematology
• Oncology
• Rehabilitation Medicine

Background:

• Physical function and quality of life (QOL) often decline during hematopoietic stem cell transplant (HSCT).
• The impact of peritransplant multidirectional walking interventions on these declines remains uninvestigated.

Purpose of the Study:

• To assess the efficacy of a novel multidirectional walking program.
• To evaluate its effects on physical function and QOL in adults undergoing HSCT.

Main Methods:

• Thirty-five HSCT recipients were randomized into a supervised multidirectional walking (WALK) group or a usual care (CONT) group.
• Physical function was measured using the 6-minute walk test (6MWT), Physical Performance Test, and Timed Up and Go test.
• Health-related QOL was assessed using the Functional Assessment of Cancer Therapy-Bone Marrow Transplant (FACT-BMT) questionnaire.

Main Results:

• The WALK group demonstrated significant improvements in aerobic capacity (6MWT), physical and functional well-being, and overall QOL post-intervention.
• These improvements exceeded minimal clinically important differences.
• No significant changes were observed in the CONT group.

Conclusions:

• A multidirectional walking program during HSCT hospitalization can enhance aerobic capacity and QOL.
• This structured exercise approach offers a potential benefit compared to usual care for HSCT patients.