What side effects are associated with this type of intervention?

Structured exercise regimens, like those studied in the Alberta Cancer Exercise (ACE) Program, are designed to improve physical well-being and quality of life in cancer survivors. Common side effects of such exercise programs can include muscle soreness, fatigue, and, in some cases, joint pain. However, these side effects are generally mild and temporary. Exercise has been shown to help mitigate other treatment-related side effects such as fatigue, anxiety, and depression, and can improve overall physical function and quality of life.

What prior FDA approvals exist?

FDA approvals for the treatment of tumors have primarily focused on pharmacological interventions, including chemotherapy, targeted therapy, and immunotherapy. Drugs such as abiraterone, pembrolizumab, and avelumab have been approved for various cancers, including prostate cancer and Merkel cell carcinoma, with demonstrated benefits in overall survival and quality of life. While structured exercise regimens like those in the Alberta Cancer Exercise (ACE) Program are not FDA-approved treatments, they are increasingly recognized for their role in enhancing physical well-being and QoL in cancer survivors.

What other types of research exist?

Promising alternatives to the Alberta Cancer Exercise (ACE) Program for tumor patients include: 1) Structured exercise programs focusing on resistance and aerobic training, which have shown benefits in improving physical function and QoL. 2) Multimodal interventions combining exercise with nutritional support and psychological counseling, which address multiple aspects of cancer recovery. 3) Tailored exercise regimens based on individual patient assessments, ensuring personalized and effective interventions. These alternatives have demonstrated potential in enhancing overall health outcomes for cancer patients.

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Exercise Program for Cancer (ACE Trial)

N/A

Recruiting

Led By Nicole Culos-Reed, PhD

Research Sponsored by University of Alberta

Eligibility Criteria Checklist

Specific guidelines that determine who can or cannot participate in a clinical trial

Must have

Be over the age of 18 years

Be older than 18 years old

Timeline

Screening 3 weeks

Treatment Varies

Follow Up baseline to one-year

Awards & highlights

Summary

This trial is testing the ACE Program, a structured exercise plan for adult cancer survivors. The program aims to improve their physical well-being and quality of life through consistent, personalized exercise. It may also help prevent new cancers from developing.

Who is the study for?

This trial is for adults over 18 with a cancer diagnosis who can do low-intensity exercise. It's open to those pre-treatment, currently receiving treatment, or up to 3 years post-treatment. Participants must be able to consent and understand English.

What is being tested?

The study tests the Alberta Cancer Exercise (ACE) Program across clinics in Alberta. It aims to see if this community-based exercise program improves physical well-being and quality of life for cancer survivors and helps prevent secondary cancers.

What are the potential side effects?

Since the intervention involves exercise, potential side effects may include typical risks associated with physical activity such as muscle soreness, fatigue, or injury; however these are generally mild and manageable.

Eligibility Criteria

Inclusion Criteria

You may be eligible if you check “Yes” for the criteria below

Select...

I am over 18 years old.

Timeline

Screening ~ 3 weeks3 visits

Treatment ~ Varies

Follow Up ~ baseline to one-year

Screening ~ 3 weeks

Treatment ~ Varies

Follow Up ~baseline to one-year

This trial's timeline: 3 weeks for screening, Varies for treatment, and baseline to one-year for reporting.

Treatment Details

Study Objectives

Study objectives can provide a clearer picture of what you can expect from a treatment.

Primary study objectives

Physical Activity Minutes Per Week

Secondary study objectives

Adverse events

Aerobic Endurance

Balance

+12 more

Other study objectives

1RM or 8RM strength (optional)

Core endurance test (optional)

Home-based programming stepping test

+1 more

Trial Design

1Treatment groups

Experimental Treatment

Group I: Exercise InterventionExperimental Treatment1 Intervention

Participant exercise sessions will be conducted in groups of 10-15 under the direct supervision of the community-based exercise specialist. Sessions will be twice a week for 12-weeks. Participants will have the option to continue with the exercise program after the 12-weeks on a fee-for-service basis.

Treatment

First Studied

Drug Approval Stage

How many patients have taken this drug

Exercise

2016

Completed Phase 1

~820

0 / 1Eligibility criteria met

Research Highlights

Information in this section is not a recommendation. We encourage patients to speak with their healthcare team when evaluating any treatment decision.

Mechanism Of Action

Side Effect Profile

Prior Approvals

Other Research

The Alberta Cancer Exercise (ACE) Program emphasizes structured exercise regimens to improve the physical well-being and quality of life (QoL) of cancer survivors. Exercise helps in tumor treatment by reducing inflammation, improving immune function, and enhancing the efficacy of conventional therapies like chemotherapy and radiotherapy. It also mitigates side effects such as fatigue, muscle wasting, and depression. For tumor patients, these benefits are crucial as they not only improve overall health and QoL but also potentially enhance treatment outcomes and reduce the risk of cancer recurrence.

A randomized, feasibility trial of an exercise and nutrition-based rehabilitation programme (ENeRgy) in people with cancer.Anaplastic thyroid carcinoma: review of treatment protocols.Evidence base for multimodal therapy in cachexia.