Current treatments for haematological cancers are associated with improved survival rates, however they are also associated with significant toxicity and long periods of hospitalization, which may negatively affect patients’ quality of life and physical performance[1]. Hematological stem cell transplant (HSCT) is a potentially curative treatment option however remains a high-toxicity treatment with a high risk of severe complications[2]. It is unclear what rehabilitation is needed by patients undergoing HSCT. Our goal is to investigate the physical performance and rehabilitation needs of patients undergoing HSCT. Research will be completed through three distinct work packages, aligning with the first phase of the MRC Framework:
Work package 1 is a qualitative synthesis to explore patients’ perspectives of changes in physical performance while undergoing HSCT. This synthesis will look at physical performance before, during and after cancer treatment. The findings of individual studies will be drawn together to give greater understanding of the patient experience of HSCT.
Work Package 2 is a prospective, longitudinal cohort study to evaluate the effects of treatment on patients undergoing HSCT. The objectives are this study are: (1) to investigate the impact of HSCT on physical performance, quality of life and fatigue before and over 12 months from HSCT; (2) to investigate the effect of pre-transplantation factors associated with outcomes post HSCT and identify potentially modifiable factors; (3) to compare changes in outcomes between older (aged ≥60 years) and younger (18–59 years) patients.
Work Package 3 will use experience-based co-design to develop a rehabilitation intervention that meets the needs of patients undergoing HSCT. Patients, carers and staff will be invited to attend interview and co-design sessions.
Overall this project will determine the impact of treatment on the physical performance of patients undergoing HSCT and work with key stakeholders to develop a rehabilitation programme that addresses patients needs.