Effects of Early Pulmonary Rehabilitation and Long-term Exercise on Functioning, Quality of Life and Postoperative Outcome in Lung Cancer Patients

Detailed Summary

Lung cancer is the leading cause of cancer death in males, and is increasing in females. Up to 73% of affected patients present with Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease (COPD). Most lung cancer patients have an average survival of about 8 months from diagnosis. Lobectomy for initial stages has demonstrated higher survival rates, but only 15% to 25% are surgical candidates; unfortunately, cardiopulmonary impairment mainly due to coexisting COPD reduces this number and patients undergo medical treatment or marginal lung resection, with minor functional impact but possible ineffective control of disease. Furthermore, COPD is associated with increased postoperative morbidity and mortality, longer in-hospital stay, need for additional treatments, and a rise in sanitary costs. The investigators planned a randomised trial on surgical candidates to assess the effect of comprehensive pulmonary rehabilitation on functional and surgical outcomes, functioning, and Quality of Life (QoL).

Study Details

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Interventions