Multi-theory model-based exercise for cognition, physical fitness, and quality of life in patients with lymphoma...

To evaluate the effects of a multi-theory model (MTM)-based exercise program on cognitive function, physical fitness, and quality of life among blood cancer survivors.

In this randomized controlled trial, 86 adults with lymphoma were recruited from a specialized oncology hospital in Fujian, southeastern China, and randomly assigned to an intervention or usual-care control group. The intervention group received an MTM-based exercise program plus usual care; controls received usual care alone. Outcomes were assessed at baseline (T0), immediately post-intervention (T1), and 4 weeks post-intervention (T2).

Of 43 participants allocated to the intervention group, 38 completed the program (retention, 88.4%); mean adherence was 79.0%. Compared with usual care, the MTM-based exercise program significantly improved subjective cognitive function, physical fitness, and quality of life at T1 and T2 (all P < 0.001). Cognitive function improved from T0 to T1 (P < 0.001) and was maintained at T2, with no further significant change from T1 to T2 (P = 0.074). Physical fitness and quality of life improved from T0 to T1 and remained significantly higher at T2, compared with baseline (T0) (all P < 0.001).

A MTM-based exercise program produced sustained short-term improvements in cognitive, physical, and quality-of-life outcomes among blood cancer survivors.

Chinese Clinical Trial Registry, registration number ChiCTR-2400083827.

Theory-driven exercise may offer a feasible, behaviorally informed supportive-care strategy to protect brain health, preserve functional capacity, and enhance well-being across the blood cancer survivorship continuum.