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25 patients have consented, with 12 completing the trial without any intervention-related adverse events and 6 withdrawn.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
OBJECTIVE: To gather preliminary qualitative data that will assist in the codesign and development of a new informational and supportive website to assist informal cancer carers in Australia. DESIGN AND SETTING: Utilising a previously tested codesign process, informal carers' experiences and perspectives, including those of healthcare professionals', were examined via focus groups and/or interviews. Data were analysed via thematic analysis. PARTICIPANTS: Rural (n=9) and urban (n=11) carers', and healthcare professionals' (n=8) perspectives were collected. Carers participated in a focus group (n=9) or telephone interview (n=11). Healthcare professionals completed an interview (n=6) or online survey (n=2). RESULTS: Rural and urban carers typically felt ill prepared for their multitudinal caregiving responsibilities. Supporting patient-to-healthcare professional liaisons could especially challenge. Carers' biopsychosocial and fiscal strains were affected by patients' hardships and available informal supports. Rural carers described greater social support than urban carers. Both rural and urban carers also described discontentment related to a carer neglecting healthcare system. Both carers and healthcare professionals endorsed the need for a user-friendly, carer-specific website encompassing practical information and resources, peer-driven advice and evidence-based illness information, tailored to the Australian context. CONCLUSIONS: Carers and healthcare professionals recognise the pressing need for an Australian, cancer carer-specific online resource. Findings will inform the next phase, where a resource will be designed, developed and tested.