P-move: a randomized control trial of exercise in patients with advanced pancreatic or biliary tract cancer (aPBC) receiving beyond first-line chemotherapy

Abstract Purpose Patients with advanced pancreatic and biliary tract cancer (aPBC) frequently suffer from high symptom burden. Exercise can reduce treatment side effects and improve patient-related outcomes (PROMs). However, evidence from prospective studies regarding feasibility and efficacy in advanced settings are sparse. The primary aim of this prospective, randomized-controlled study was to evaluate the feasibility and effects of exercise (ET) in patients with aPBC. Methods Patients with PBC beyond first-line therapy were randomized according to the minimization procedure with stratification by gender, age, and loss of body weight in the past six months. The intervention group (IG) completed 3 training units/week for 8 weeks (1x supervised strength sessions, 2x individualized home-based sessions). Control group (CG) received recommendations on physical activity during cancer. Results 41 patients (stage IV pancreatic or biliary tract cancer) were included no adverse events related to exercise occurred during the trial. Physical function increased significantly in IG in 5 out of 7 physical domains. Comparison of IG and CG at 8 weeks (t2) showed significant differences in favour of IG in leg press (p = 0.001), bench press (p = 0.011), sit-to-stand (p = 0.001) and crunch (0.006). Constipation revealed a significant difference in favour of IG at t2 (p = 0.033). Quality of life stabilized/increased in IG during the study period compared to a decrease in CG. Throughout/Over the 8 weeks, fatigue notably reduced in the IG (p = 0.028). Conclusion Exercise is safe and feasible in patients with aPBC undergoing further line therapy. Significant improvements in physical functioning and increased quality of life were achieved. German Clinical Trials Register ID: DRKS00021179; Registration date 15.05.2020