To evaluate the independent effects of walking training on cardiorespiratory fitness (CRF), fatigue, dyspnea, safety, and adherence in adult cancer patients.
Approach:
Data Sources: Search conducted in Web of Science, Embase, PubMed, and Cochrane Library Database up to November 28, 2023.
Key Findings:
Walking training significantly improved peak oxygen uptake (VO2 peak) with SMD = 0.56 (95% CI: [0.06, 1.06]).
Walking training significantly reduced fatigue with SMD = -0.45 (95% CI: [-0.71, -0.18]).
No significant effects were found for maximal oxygen uptake (VO2 max) with SMD = 0.20 (95% CI: [-0.15, 0.54]), 6-Minute Walk Distance (6MWD) with MD = 53.97 (95% CI: [-23.00, 130.93]), and dyspnea with SMD = -0.18 (95% CI: [-0.47, 0.11]).
No serious intervention-related adverse events were reported.
Adherence rates to walking training ranged from 67% to 94%.
Interpretation:
Walking training may improve VO2 peak and reduce fatigue in cancer patients; however, the certainty of evidence remains low.
Limitations:
Low certainty of evidence due to study heterogeneity in intervention protocols and participant characteristics.
Need for larger, high-quality RCTs with standardized intervention protocols and longer follow-up periods.
Conclusion:
Walking training has benefits for improving CRF and reducing fatigue in cancer patients; however, further research is necessary.
