MPN-FIT: a randomized controlled pilot trial of supervised exercise in myeloproliferative neoplasms

Myeloproliferative neoplasms (MPN) are associated with a high symptom burden and impaired quality of life (QoL), often unaided by available treatments. Physical activity has demonstrated benefits in other cancers; however, its potential has yet to be explored in MPN. This randomized controlled trial aimed to evaluate the feasibility, acceptability, and efficacy of a supervised exercise program for patients with MPN based on longitudinal assessment of symptom burden, QoL, and clinical/inflammatory markers (C-reactive protein, erythrocyte sedimentation rate, ferritin, lactate dehydrogenase [LDH], and serum cytokines). Patients with MPN (n = 55) were randomized 3:2 to a 12-week home-based exercise intervention (flexibility/resistance/aerobics) supervised by a kinesiologist vs waitlist control. Measures included patient-reported outcome questionnaires, peripheral blood sampling, and postintervention interviews with participants. Forty-seven patients completed the trial (FIT group, n = 26; control group, n = 21). Median age was 66 years (range, 27-86), and 60% were female. All feasibility benchmarks were met, with 88% of participants satisfied and 92% with intent to continue an exercise program on a regular basis. A significant reduction in LDH was observed in FIT patients compared with controls (-14.5 U/L vs +4.0 U/L; P = .03). Patients interviewed described positive effects of the intervention on symptoms and would unanimously recommend the program to others with MPN. In this pilot study, supervised exercise was feasible, acceptable, and showed potential benefits on inflammatory/disease markers.