Exercise for Chronic Lymphocytic Leukemia
Trial Summary
What is the purpose of this trial?
This clinical trial studies the effect of short-term (acute) and long-term (chronic) exercise on immune characteristics and function (phenotype) of patients with indolent non-Hodgkin lymphoma (NHL) and chronic lymphocytic leukemia (CLL). Most newly-diagnosed CLL patients have early-stage disease at the time of diagnosis and do not require treatment. Despite not needing therapy, these patients have significant immune dysfunction. This may lead to an increased risk of serious infections requiring hospitalization and an increased risk of secondary non-blood-based (hematologic) cancers. Increasing CLL patients overall physical fitness levels, through exercise during the observation stage, may provide a realistic approach means to increase survival, decrease treatment-related side effects, and improve immune function. Information learned from this study may help researchers determine whether a particular exercise regimen can be used to strengthen the immune system of indolent NHL and CLL patients, delay time to disease progression, assess the need for treatment, and assess infection rates.
Will I have to stop taking my current medications?
The trial protocol does not specify whether you need to stop taking your current medications. However, if you are receiving treatment for indolent NHL, you must have at least 8 weeks of planned treatment remaining or be at least 6 months post-treatment with no planned treatments during the 12-week intervention period.
What data supports the effectiveness of the exercise treatment for chronic lymphocytic leukemia?
Research shows that a 12-week exercise program, including high-intensity interval training and resistance training, improved muscle strength and immune function in older adults with chronic lymphocytic leukemia. This suggests that exercise can help improve physical fitness and immune response in these patients.12345
Is exercise safe for people with chronic lymphocytic leukemia?
Exercise programs, including high-intensity interval training and resistance training, have been found to be safe and feasible for individuals with chronic lymphocytic leukemia and other chronic diseases. These programs can improve physical fitness and immune function without significant safety concerns.12678
How does the exercise treatment for chronic lymphocytic leukemia differ from other treatments?
The exercise treatment for chronic lymphocytic leukemia is unique because it focuses on improving physical fitness and immune function through a structured program of high-intensity interval training and resistance training, rather than using medication. This approach aims to enhance muscle strength and immune cell activity, which are not typically targeted by standard drug treatments for this condition.125910
Research Team
Michael P. Gustafson, Ph.D.
Principal Investigator
Mayo Clinic
Eligibility Criteria
This trial is for people aged 18-80 with indolent non-Hodgkin lymphoma or chronic lymphocytic leukemia. Participants should be in the early stages of their disease and not currently require treatment, but have immune dysfunction that could benefit from improved physical fitness.Inclusion Criteria
Exclusion Criteria
Timeline
Screening
Participants are screened for eligibility to participate in the trial
Aim 1: Baseline Assessment
Participants undergo measurement of height/weight and vital signs, complete lung function testing, undergo an exercise test, and collection of blood samples. Participants may also undergo DEXA scan.
Aim 2: Aerobic Training Program
CLL patients complete a 12-week semi-supervised aerobic training program. Patients then complete all Aim 1 activities again after completion of the program.
Aims 3-4: Usual Care or Aerobic Training
Indolent NHL patients undergo baseline assessments and are randomized to either usual care or a 12-week aerobic training program, followed by repeat baseline assessments.
Aim 5: Follow-up
All patients from Aims 3-4 are invited to repeat baseline activities. Patients are followed up every 6 months or annually for 3 years.
Treatment Details
Interventions
- Exercise Intervention
Find a Clinic Near You
Who Is Running the Clinical Trial?
Mayo Clinic
Lead Sponsor