Evaluating the Feasibility and Acceptability of a Tailored Multicomponent Rehabilitation Program for Adolescent and Young Adult (AYA) Cancer Survivors 8267

Abstract

Objectives

To: (1) assess the feasibility, acceptability, and safety of CaRE-AYA and (2) obtain preliminary estimates of variability in clinical outcomes including disability, physical and social functioning, and mental health by adapting an existing evidence-based multidimensional cancer rehabilitation to address the needs of adolescent and young adult (AYA) cancer survivors (CaRE-AYA) and conducting a phase 1 study.

Design

Single-arm, explanatory sequential multimethods study conducted at Princess Margaret Cancer Centre.

Setting

AYA patients could be referred to the CaRE-AYA program from the Cancer Rehabilitation and Survivorship Program at Princess Margaret Cancer Centre.

Participants

AYA cancer survivors (aged 18-39y) who were treated for cancer at Princess Margaret Cancer Centre and were experiencing moderate to high levels of disability or treatment effects could be referred to CaRE-AYA.

Interventions

CaRE-AYA is an 8-week group program that includes individualized exercise prescribed by a registered Kinesiologist and weekly in-person group-based exercise and self-management skills education.

Main Outcome Measures

Feasibility outcomes include participation and retention rates, and program adherence. Acceptability is being assessed through surveys and qualitative interviews with a subset of participants. Clinical outcome data are collected before (T0) and after (immediate [T1] and 3-month [T2]) intervention through questionnaires and physiological assessments. Any adverse events resulting from the study were reported and evaluated on the CTCAE version 5.

Results

Four CaRE-AYA groups were delivered and 26 AYAs enrolled and provided consent (63%) (age, 33.2±5.5y), and 21 (81%) completed the program. Adherence was 80% to the exercise classes and education classes. Participants reported high satisfaction with the program; 100% rated the material as important and relevant to AYA survivors. Suggestions for improvements has included later start time, more interactive components, and modifications to the educational content. Interviews, qualitative analysis, and 3-month clinical outcome data collection for group 4 participants (n=11) are still underway. There were no adverse events resulting from the study procedure, therefore confirming the safety of the intervention. Preliminary T0 to T1 data suggest important improvements on the 6 minute walk test, grip strength, physical functioning (SF-36), disability (WHODAS), mental health outcomes (GAD-7), and social functioning (SDI).

Conclusions

Preliminary data suggests the CaRE-AYA program is feasible, acceptable, and safe. Updated T2 data will be presented.

Disclosures

none.