Feasibility of implementing a Pre-RxTEx program for lung cancer
Research type
Research Study
Full title
PREFACE: Understanding the feasibility of implementing a co-designed, pre-radiotherapy, phsycial activity program for people with stage I-III Non-small cell lung cancer
IRAS ID
350051
Contact name
Gillian Prue
Contact email
Sponsor organisation
Queens University Belfast
Duration of Study in the UK
1 years, 0 months, 1 days
Research summary
There is compelling evidence which supports the use of exercise as an effective therapy throughout cancer treatment to manage treatment side effects, reduce symptom burden, and improve quality of life (QOL). Furthermore, pre-clinical evidence demonstrates the acute effects of exercise can improve tumour sensitivity to radiotherapy by reducing tumour hypoxia. However, this is a new, understudied area of research. Therefore, before determining effect, it is first necessary to understand the feasibility of delivering such an intervention within the operations of a radiotherapy department within the National Health Service (NHS), and alongside standardised radiotherapy treatment pathways.
This study will investigate the feasibility, and acceptability of delivering a co-designed, supervised pre-radiotherapy, exercise programme for people with stage I-III NSCLC, receiving radiotherapy with curative intent.
This study follows a multi-method, methodology consisting of two phases:Phase 1 -Feasibility testing of the pre-radiotherapy exercise programme. Participants will be recruited from the Northern Ireland Cancer Centre (NICC) in Belfast, and the exercise will be performed within the radiotherapy department. The exercise program will consist of performing a 20 minute, personalised exercise session, five days per week, immediately before each radiotherapy treatment. All participants will be invited to their radiotherapy appointment 30 minutes before their scheduled appointment to complete this exercise sessions, which will be supervised by a qualified, exercise specialist. Participants will complete pre- and post-intervention physical performance tests, including quality of life and symptom experience questionnaires. An data collection sheet will monitor performance and feasibility outcomes throughout the program
Phase 2 - Qualitative interviews - Phase 1 participants (including those who withdrew), nominated persons, and healthcare professionals involved will be invited for semi-structured interviews to understand the feasibility and acceptability of the programme through exploring experiences and satisfaction, perceived barriers and facilitators to the programmes delivery, and potential methods of optimisation/recommended changes
REC name
London - Bromley Research Ethics Committee
REC reference
25/LO/0324
Date of REC Opinion
18 Aug 2025
REC opinion
Further Information Favourable Opinion