Hanna, L.R., Avila, P.F., Meteer, J.D., Nicholas, D.R. & Kaminsky, L.A. (2008). The effects of a comprehensive exercise program on physical function, fatigue, and mood in patients with various types of cancer. Oncology Nursing Forum, 35(3), 461–469.

The Cancer Exercise Program (CEP) is based on exercise, education, and support. Patients attended CEP sessions twice a week as able until they completed 16 sessions. Exercise mode was based on patients’ fitness level; individualized heart rate target ranges were supplied. The education component focused on symptom management, coping, survivorship, resources, spirituality, stress management, treatment, and other topics. Education was an optional but encouraged component of the CEP. Peer support was encouraged. The exercise specialist also provided support.

• The sample was composed of 39 participants.
• The sample included 13 cancers.
• Most patients had finished cancer treatment within six months of beginning the program.

• Single site
• 350-bed teaching hospital
• Midwestern city, United States

Nonrandomized retrospective analysis of archived data

• The Revised Piper Fatigue Scale measured fatigue.
• Profile of Mood States questionnaire measured mood.
• Investigators measured fatigue and mood before the first exercise session and after all the sessions. Investigators also measured physical function.

• Patients reported a significant decrease in total mood disturbance after CEP participation, compared to before CEP.
• Of all participants, 80% improved; the total mood disturbance of 20% of patients stayed the same or worsened.
• Fatigue and physical function improved.

• The fact that this study was a retrospective analysis was a limitation.
• The study had a very small sample size, and it lacked a control group. Patients were compared to themselves only.
• The study included patients with various types of cancer.
• Educational sessions were optional.
• The number of sessions attended or the topics covered during sessions attended may have affected outcome.