VIABILIDADE DO PROGRAMA DE EXERCÍCIO ONLINE EM DOENTES DE CANCRO AVANÇADO: UMA PROVA DE CONCEITO

Abstract

Advanced cancer is characterized by high symptom burden, functional decline, and a significant impact on quality of life, requiring supportive strategies that ensure safety, accessibility, and effectiveness. Exercise has emerged as a valuable intervention in this population, although logistical and clinical barriers often hinder participation in face-toface programs. This proof-of-concept study aimed to assess the feasibility, safety, adherence, and preliminary effects of a supervised online exercise program for individuals with advanced cancer. The sample comprised five participants (four women and one man; aged 41-64 years), two of whom were undergoing active treatment. The program lasted six weeks, with three weekly sessions of 45-60 minutes including warm-up, strength training using household equipment, and relaxation. Validated questionnaires (FACIT-F, HADS, QLQ-C30, EQ-5D-5L, PRO-CTCAE) and functional tests (30s Sit-to-Stand, single-leg balance) were applied at baseline and postintervention. Adherence was high, with four participants completing ≥14 sessions, and no adverse events were recorded. Consistent improvements were observed in fatigue (reductions in four participants), global quality of life (increase in all cases), pain, insomnia, and anxiety, while depression showed mixed trajectories. Functional tests revealed gains in strength and balance across all participants, with substantial improvements in three cases. Participants under active treatment showed less pronounced benefits. Overall, this study confirms that online exercise is feasible, safe, and a promising supportive strategy in advanced cancer, providing preliminary evidence that warrants larger, longer, and methodologically robust trials.