Telehealth Exercise for Post-Transplant Frailty
What You Need to Know Before You Apply
What is the purpose of this trial?
This trial explores how a telehealth exercise program can reduce frailty in individuals who have undergone a bone marrow transplant. Participants will use a phone, tablet, or computer to access exercise videos focusing on coordination, posture, stretching, balance, and resistance/aerobic training. The aim is to determine if these exercises can enhance physical function and reduce frailty, aiding in the design of future exercise programs for cancer patients. Individuals who are two or more years post-bone marrow transplant and feel weak or low on energy might be suitable candidates, provided they have internet access and a smartphone. As an unphased trial, this study offers a unique opportunity to contribute to innovative research that could improve the quality of life for future patients.
Do I have to stop taking my current medications for the trial?
The trial information does not specify whether you need to stop taking your current medications. It's best to discuss this with the trial coordinators or your doctor.
What prior data suggests that this telehealth exercise program is safe for post-transplant patients?
Research shows that exercise programs are generally safe and well-tolerated for people who are frail after a transplant. For example, past studies found that exercise can improve physical abilities in patients, including those waiting for a kidney or liver transplant. These studies did not report any serious side effects, indicating that exercise is safe for those recovering from a transplant.
Moreover, an exercise program specifically designed for frail patients showed positive results without major negative effects. Participants often experienced improvements in their overall physical health. This suggests that structured exercise, even when done through telehealth, is likely to be well-tolerated.
Overall, exercise programs, like the one in this trial, are considered safe based on existing research. They might even offer additional benefits, such as reducing the chances of returning to the hospital.12345Why are researchers excited about this trial?
Researchers are excited about this trial because it explores a new way to help post-transplant patients who experience frailty. Unlike traditional rehab programs that require in-person visits, this trial uses telehealth to deliver exercise sessions right to patients' homes. This method not only makes it easier for patients to participate regularly but also gives them access to expert guidance without leaving their living room. By testing this convenient approach, researchers hope to find out if it can effectively improve strength and well-being in post-transplant patients, potentially making rehab more accessible and effective for many.
What evidence suggests that this telehealth exercise program is effective for reducing frailty after bone marrow transplant?
Research has shown that telehealth exercise programs can reduce frailty in patients who have undergone a bone marrow transplant. In this trial, participants in Arm A will engage in an 8-week telehealth exercise program. Earlier studies have demonstrated improved physical abilities in patients with multiple myeloma, a type of blood cancer, after completing the program. Participants often reported better balance, strength, and endurance. Another study found that these home-based exercises were easy to follow and that patients could maintain the routine. This early evidence suggests that telehealth exercise may enhance physical function and reduce frailty in bone marrow transplant patients. Meanwhile, participants in Arm B will continue their normal daily activities for 8 weeks before starting the telehealth exercise program.678910
Who Is on the Research Team?
Kyuwan Lee
Principal Investigator
City of Hope Medical Center
Are You a Good Fit for This Trial?
This trial is for adults over 18 who are at least two years post-bone marrow transplant, in remission, and identified as pre-frail or frail. They must be able to consent, perform study procedures, speak English, and have internet plus a smartphone. Excluded are those with exercise contraindications like acute infections or physical disabilities, regular exercisers (>60 mins/week), those with serious heart conditions, or women who are pregnant/planning pregnancy.Inclusion Criteria
Exclusion Criteria
Timeline for a Trial Participant
Screening
Participants are screened for eligibility to participate in the trial
Treatment
Participants in Arm A participate in telehealth exercise sessions at home over 30 minutes with a trainer 3 days a week for 8 weeks. Arm B participants maintain normal activities for 8 weeks before starting the exercise program.
Follow-up
Participants are monitored for changes in physical functioning, including chair stand, gait speed, and timed balance.
What Are the Treatments Tested in This Trial?
Interventions
- Exercise Intervention
Find a Clinic Near You
Who Is Running the Clinical Trial?
City of Hope Medical Center
Lead Sponsor
National Cancer Institute (NCI)
Collaborator