ABSTRACT
Introduction A global trial is currently investigating the impact of high-intensity interval training (HIIT) on survival in advanced prostate cancer (the INTERVAL trial). To ensure greater accessibility, we designed a parallel trial (EXACT), to determine the feasibility of exercise in those contraindicated to HIIT. Methods Men with metastatic castrate-resistant prostate cancer being actively treated with androgen deprivation therapy and a novel hormone therapy (abiraterone acetate or enzalutamide) are eligible to participate in 12- weeks of home-based walking and strengthening. Participants complete physical (e.g. 6-min walk test and timed sit-to-stand) and quality of life (e.g. BPI-SF;EQ-5D-5L;FACIT-fatigue;FACT-P) outcomes at baseline (T1), 12 (T2) and 24 weeks (T3). This trial was adapted to enable remote recruitment and delivery during the COVID-19 pandemic. Results To date, 118 patients have been screened, with 33 approached by their clinician to participate. 25 patients have consented, with 12 completing the trial without any intervention-related adverse events and 6 withdrawn. Recruitment and trial delivery was operational throughout the COVID-19 pandemic. Currently positive trends are evident for physical and quality of life outcomes at T2 and T3. Conclusions Although this trial is ongoing, early trends suggest this intervention is safe and feasible for men with advanced castration resistant prostate cancer and could improve physical capacity and quality of life.
ABSTRACT
Background: We are currently in a period of transition, from the pre-COVID-19 (coronavirus disease 2019) era and the initial reactive lockdowns, to now the ongoing living with and potentially the after COVID-19 period. Each country is at its own individual stage of this transition, but many have gone through a period of feeling adrift;disconnected from normal lives, habits and routines, finding oneself betwixt and between stages, similar to that of liminality. Children and young people have been particularly affected. Aim: To increase the understanding of home and community-based strategies that contribute to children and young people's capacity to adjust to societal changes, both during and after pandemics. Moreover, to identify ways in which children's actions contribute to the capacity of others to adjust to the changes arising from the pandemic. The potential for these activities to influence and contribute to broader social mobilisation will be examined and promoted. Research design: To achieve the aim of this study, a participatory health research approach will be taken. The overarching theoretical framework of the COVISION study is that of liminality. The study design includes four work packages: two syntheses of literature (a rapid realist review and scoping review) to gain an overview of the emerging international context of evidence of psychosocial mitigations and community resilience in pandemics, and more specifically COVID-19;qualitative exploration of children and young people's perspective of COVID-19 via creative outlets and reflections;and participatory learning and action through co-production.