Exercise capacity, physical activity and quality of life in patients with newly diagnosed hematologic malignancies: a cross-sectional study

Objective The aims of this study were to compare pulmonary function, exercise capacity, physical activity levels, quality of life, respiratory muscle strength and endurance, dyspnea in patients with newly diagnosed hematologic malignancies and controls. Methods Twenty-three patients and 20 healthy controls were included. Pulmonary function, exercise capacity, physical activity level, quality of life, respiratory muscle strength [maximum inspiratory (MIP), expiratory pressure (MEP)], respiratory muscle endurance, and dyspnea were evaluated. Results Patients' six-minute walk test distance, PEF, MIP, MEP, respiratory muscle endurance, total and active energy expenditure, physical activity duration, average MET's, number of steps, functional, social function, general health status scores were lower; dyspnea, symptom, fatigue subscales scores were higher compared with controls (p < .05). Conclusions Although pulmonary function is preserved, exercise capacity, respiratory muscle strength and endurance, physical activity, quality of life were impaired in patients. Individualized pulmonary rehabilitation programs should be performed in the early stage of the disease.