Impact of Graded Physical Exercise on Aerobic fitness, Endurance and health related functional outcomes among cancer patients: A Systematic Review.

[BACKGROUND] Cancer is a chronic condition characterized by the unregulated proliferation of cells due to genetic mutations. While chemotherapy is the primary treatment option, it offers both advantages and drawbacks. Due to a lack of physical strength, patients encounter challenges in carrying out everyday tasks during their hospitalization and in the period following their discharge. Consequently, individuals who have survived cancer are engaging in structured physical exercises with the goal of enhancing muscle strength and enhancing their overall well-being. To examine the impact aerobic capacity on endurance, fatigue, depression, sleep quality, physical function, and pain in cancer patients.

[METHODS] A Systematic literature review was conducted by searching PubMed, MEDLINE, Cochrane, and the Physiotherapy Evidence Database (PEDro) for articles using English descriptors indexed in the Medical Subject Headings (MeSH) and Health Sciences Descriptors (DeCS). Included articles were published between 2012 and 2022.

[RESULTS] A total of 27 articles involving 2467 cancer survivors were analyzed. Eight key parameters related to health-related quality of life were assessed. The findings demonstrated that physical activity had a positive influence on the following aspects in cancer survivors: Aerobic capacity, Endurance, Fatigue, Depression, Sleep quality, Pain, Physical function, Emotional function.

[CONCLUSION] This Systematic literature review reveals that graded physical exercises play a vital role in improving the overall health and well-being of cancer survivors. Engaging in physical activity not only enhances physical health but also contributes to mental stabilization, ultimately enhancing the health-related quality of life in cancer survivors.