Recommendations for Interventions to Improve Function in Patients With Lung Cancer: A Clinical Practice Guideline

Area of Science:

• Oncology
• Rehabilitation Medicine
• Clinical Practice Guidelines

Background:

• Lung cancer patients often face functional limitations impacting recovery.
• A synthesis of best practices for functional recovery in this population is lacking.
• This guideline addresses the need for evidence-based recommendations.

Purpose of the Study:

• To generate evidence-based recommendations for improving functional outcomes in lung cancer patients.
• To synthesize best practices for functional recovery across all disease stages.
• To guide clinicians in optimizing patient function.

Main Methods:

• Systematic literature review (2010-2021) on interventions for patient function.
• Assessment of bias using National Institutes of Health Quality Assessment standards.
• Recommendations generated using GRADE methodology for various functional outcomes and disease phases.

Main Results:

• Fifty-four studies were included in the review.
• Combined exercise approaches are recommended for mobility during prehabilitation and post-treatment.
• Combined and multimodal interventions show benefits for physical activity and general function in specific phases.

Conclusions:

• Current evidence highlights the benefits of combined exercise for mobility in prehabilitation and early post-treatment.
• Further research is needed on intervention sustainability, durability, and broader contexts.
• Recommendations are applicable to a multidisciplinary team of clinicians caring for lung cancer patients.