Prehabilitation for Ovarian Cancer Patients

Launched by NOVA SCOTIA HEALTH AUTHORITY · May 4, 2022

Keywords

ClinConnect Summary

This clinical trial is studying the effects of a specific exercise program, called prehabilitation, on women with advanced ovarian cancer who are scheduled for surgery. Prehabilitation involves doing exercises like walking or chair stands for at least four weeks before surgery. Researchers want to see if this exercise routine can help reduce frailty, improve recovery after surgery, and positively influence chemotherapy treatment plans. Since frailty can make it harder for women to undergo surgery and receive effective treatment, this study aims to find out if exercising can improve survival rates and overall health for these patients.

To participate in this trial, women must be at least 18 years old, have been diagnosed with stage III or IV ovarian cancer, and be scheduled for surgery. They also need to have at least four weeks before their surgery date to complete the exercise program. Participants can join in-person or virtually and will need approval from their oncologist. It’s important to note that women who have already had surgery, have unstable health conditions, or significant cognitive impairments will not be eligible for this study. By participating, women may help advance knowledge on how exercise can enhance treatment outcomes for those facing advanced ovarian cancer.

Gender

FEMALE

Eligibility criteria

• Inclusion Criteria:
• • 18 years or older
• • Have a confirmed diagnosis of stage III or IV ovarian cancer
• • Scheduled to receive cytoreductive surgery as part of their treatment plan
• • Must have a minimum of 4-weeks between the time of study enrollment and scheduled surgery
• • Be able to attend in-person and/or virtual exercise sessions
• • Be fluent in English
• • Have oncologist approval
• Exclusion Criteria:
• • Have already completed surgery
• • Unstable cardiac or respiratory disease, injury or any other co-morbid disease that may make it unsafe for participants to exercise
• • Significant cognitive impairment (e.g., do not have the capacity to consent, unable to follow exercise instructions)