BackgroundThe long-term impact of cancer treatment is associated with respiratory dysfunction and physical fitness impairment. Although inspiratory muscle training (IMT) has been shown as an effective exercise therapy in cancer survivors, there is no evidence on the optimal dose, application moment nor specific population effects of this intervention. The main objective of this meta-analysis is to analyse the effects of IMT on pulmonary function, physical fitness and quality of life (QoL) in cancer survivors.MethodsThis systematic review and meta-analysis was preregistered in the International Prospective Register of Systematic Reviews (PROSPERO) register and conducted according to the Preferred Reporting for Systematic Reviews and Meta-analysis statement. We used a Bayesian multilevel random-effects meta-analysis model to pool the data. Multilevel metaregression models were used to examine the conditional effects of our covariates. Convergence and model fit were evaluated through specific model parameters. Sensitivity analyses removing influential cases and using a frequentist approach were carried out.ResultsPooled data showed that IMT intervention is effective to improve pulmonary function (standardised mean difference=0.53, 95% credible interval 0.13 to 0.94, SE=0.19). However, IMT did not present statistically significant results on physical fitness and QoL. Metaregression analyses found that the type of cancer, the moment of application and the evaluation tool used had significant moderation effects on pulmonary function.ConclusionIMT could be an important part in the management of side effects suffered by cancer survivors. Considering the current evidence, this intervention is highly recommended in patients diagnosed with oesophageal and lung cancers. IMT may provide superior benefits before the biological treatment and after the surgery.PROSPERO registration number304909.

Cervical cancer (CCa) is the fourth most common type of tumour diagnosed in women. Its treatment-related side effects affect patients’ quality of life and physical condition. It is known that physical activity (PA) is beneficial to patients with cancer. However, there is a gap in research on this topic in patients with CCa during the treatment phase. In this report, a case is presented to assess the feasibility of a PA programme during chemoradiotherapy in a woman diagnosed with CCa. It is possible to develop PA programmes for patients with advanced CCa. However, no improvement was seen in the physical and functional variables analysed.

Purpose: To analyse changes in PA habits during COVID-19 confinement in a sample of Spanish breast cancer survivors and whether these changes have led to differences in current physical activity practice.Methods: This is a descriptive study using an ad hoc survey. Sociodemographic, clinical and physical activity variables were recorded in a sample of breast cancer survivors over 18 years old, independently of treatment and diagnosed stage. Final sample was 124 women, most of whom had completed the treatments.Results: There was a significant decrease in physical activity level of Spanish breast cancer survivors during confinement. However, there were no significance comparing pre and post confinement periods. In all periods those women who trained under supervision had a higher level of physical activity. Comparing pre and post periods, more survivors performing their training outdoors after confinement. Before confinement, training location influenced survivors who trained in sport centres did so at a higher intensity and for longer periods. After confinement, the training location only influenced the duration of training. Conclusion: During COVID-19 confinement there was significative changes in the physical activity habits of Spanish breast cancer survivors. However, the only change from before the confinement was the location.