PURPOSE: Before, during and after autologous hematopoietic stem cell transplantation (HD-ASCT) patients suffer from significant loss of physical function, and experience multiple complications during and after hospitalization. Studies regarding safety and feasibility of physical exercise interventions for patients undergoing treatment with HD-ASCT are missing.

METHODS: Forty patients referred to HD-ASCT treatment, suffering from multiple myeloma, lymphoma or amyloidosis aged 23-70 years were enrolled in a prospective longitudinal study. The study consisted of a home-based exercise program for use in the ambulatory setting and supervised exercise sessions Monday to Friday for 30-40 minutes during admission. Safety of the exercise program and physical tests were assessed by using a weekly questionnaire and report of inadvertent incidences. Adherence to the home-based exercise program was reported by using a patient diary, weekly questionnaire and count of daily attendance in supervised sessions during hospital stay. Data collection was scheduled shortly after diagnosis, admission, discharge and eight weeks after discharge. Success criteria were: no severe adverse events in relation to exercise program and assessments; performance of three days of physical exercises during ambulatory period and hospital stay and 150 minutes of weekly physical activity.

RESULTS: Of the 25 patients who completed the exercise program during the ambulatory period prior to HD-ASCT a mean weekly attendance to home exercises of 5.3 (± 2.8) days and a median weekly physical activity of 240 (± 153.8) minutes was found. During hospital stay the median attendance was 9 (± 3.9) days of 10 (± 6.9) possible. Two months after discharge the patients reported a median weekly physical activity of 360 (2745.5) minutes. No severe adverse events in relation to the exercise program or assessments were reported.

CONCLUSION: Based on the enrolled number of patients the physical exercise intervention for patients undergoing HD-ASCT seems promising regarding feasibility and safety.