Deterioration in physical activity and function differs according to treatment type in non-small cell lung cancer – future directions for physiotherapy management

Abstract

Objectives To investigate in non-surgically and surgically treated non-small cell lung cancer (NSCLC): (1) changes in physical activity, function, health-related quality of life (HRQoL) and symptoms after diagnosis; and (2) the association between physical activity and outcomes. Design Prospective observational study. Setting Three acute tertiary hospitals. Participants Sixty-nine individuals (43 male, median [IQR] age 68 [61 to 74] years) with stage I–IV NSCLC. Main outcome measures The primary outcome (Physical Activity Scale for the Elderly) and secondary outcome (six-minute walk test and questionnaires assessing HRQoL, function, symptoms, mood) were measured at diagnosis (pre-treatment),..