Multidisciplinary perspectives in exercise oncology across the translational research continuum

Area of Science:

• Exercise oncology integrates biology, immunology, physiology, psychology, behavioral science, epidemiology, and clinical oncology.
• Research spans preclinical, observational, interventional, behavioral, dissemination, and childhood cancer studies.

Background:

• Exercise oncology is a multidisciplinary field examining exercise's role in cancer care.
• Current research explores exercise's impact across the translational continuum.

Purpose of the Study:

• To provide an overview of the multidisciplinary field of exercise oncology.
• To summarize key findings from various study types within exercise oncology.

Main Methods:

• Review of preclinical, observational, interventional outcome, interventional behavioral, dissemination and implementation, and childhood cancer studies.
• Synthesis of evidence regarding exercise's effects on tumor growth, mortality, patient-reported outcomes, and fitness.

Main Results:

• Preclinical studies indicate exercise modulates the tumor microenvironment, potentially reducing tumor growth.
• Observational studies suggest postdiagnosis exercise correlates with lower mortality rates.
• Interventional studies show exercise improves fatigue, anxiety, depression, physical functioning, and quality of life in adult cancer patients.
• Childhood cancer studies demonstrate benefits for cardiorespiratory fitness and muscular strength, though evidence quality is often low.
• Behavioral studies identify effective exercise strategies but require more diversity and attention to social determinants.
• Dissemination and implementation research is ongoing but lacks evidence on cost-effective and equitable strategies.

Conclusions:

• Multidisciplinary exercise oncology research provides evidence-based recommendations for improving cancer patient quality of life and potentially survival.
• Significant limitations and research gaps remain, particularly in tailoring interventions, addressing social determinants, and optimizing integration with cancer treatments.