An exercise oncology clinical pathway: Screening and referral for personalized interventions

TLDR: This research highlights the need to understand more fully the role of emotion in the decision-making process and the role that emotion plays in the development of new treatments for depression.

Abstract: There are approximately 17 million cancer survivors living in the United States and by 2040 this estimate is predicted to increase to 26.1 million.1 Exercise provides a myriad of health benefits to individuals during and after cancer treatment by reducing treatment-related symptoms, improving functional status and quality of life, and lowering risk of disease recurrence.2,3 Despite the established benefits, an individual’s level of physical activity often decreases during treatment and does not return to pre-diagnosis levels after treatment completion.4,5 While exercise is regarded as safe and beneficial for individuals with cancer, promoting exercise for this population is complex. A patient-centered pathway is needed that can guide oncology and primary care professionals in efficient assessment of an individual’s condition and enable personalized referrals for exercise interventions that promote physical activity. The purpose of this manuscript is to provide a framework for clinical decision making that enables personalized condition assessment, risk stratification, and referral to optimal settings for exercise promotion for cancer survivors. Implementation strategies are also offered to support the integration of this model into an oncology clinical workflow. With guidance from their medical provider, individuals are more likely to engage in exercise and maintain levels of physical activity during cancer treatments.6 However, the number of individuals with cancer who report receiving exercise-specific guidance from their health care providers is low.7 Of particular concern is the lack of knowledge and training among health care professionals about exercise prescription for this complex population.8