Physical inactivity is a global pandemic. There are strong well established guidelines regarding the amount of physical activity that individuals with cancer should undertake. These guidelines state that individuals with cancer should engage in 30 minutes of moderate intensity physical activity on five or more days of the week. This is supported by research which demonstrates that higher levels of physical activity are associated with improved physical function, fitness, health-related quality of life (HRQoL) and depression in some cancer types.[1] In breast and colon cancer, research suggests that higher levels of physical activity are associated with improved survival.[2]

Lung cancer, in comparison to other cancer types, is associated with poorer prognosis, higher disease burden, more physical hardship and significant unmet needs. Individuals with lung cancer experience complex symptoms, which can include dyspnoea, fatigue and pain, and frequently lead to a cycle of inactivity and functional decline. This presentation will discuss recent research findings pertaining to inactivity and functional decline in lung cancer. Research demonstrates that individuals with lung cancer are less active than similar aged healthy individuals at time of diagnosis, with only 40% meeting the physical activity guidelines. Following diagnosis, physical activity levels are lowest whilst patients undergo treatment and do not recover back to pre-treatment levels within six months. Progressive functional decline occurs over this time, with reductions in functional capacity and muscle strength. Individuals with lung cancer, who are less active, have poorer functional capacity and HRQoL compared to those who are more active.[3]

Exercise is not currently part of standard care for people with lung cancer in Australia. Preliminary evidence supports the efficacy of exercise to maintain physical function in lung cancer; however the optimal way to change physical activity behaviour in this population remains unknown.