A pilot study of physical activity in newly diagnosed elderly patients with multiple myeloma

Binder, A. F.; Spinelli, B.; Melillo, R.; Crane, N.; D039,; Adamo, L.; Martinelli, M. K.; Outschoorn, U. M.; Butryn, M.

Background: Compared to a baseline normative population, patients with multiple myeloma (MM) have decreased physical function[1]. Studies have revealed that sarcopenia[2, 3], decreased performance status[4], and poor performance on biometric testing[3, 5] predicts worse survival in patients with advanced, incurable malignancies. Physical activity (PA) has been shown to mitigate these effects and in some cases improve cancer specific survival [6-9]. However, there is a need for further research in this area for patients with hematologic malignancies. Here in we describe the results of a pilot study to assess a physical activity intervention in elderly patients with newly diagnosed multiple myeloma. Methods: We designed a single arm, feasibility study utilizing physical and behavioral therapy interventions to help participants adhere to a prescribed exercise program. Eligible patients (age ≥65 years old) were recruited from the multiple myeloma treatment clinic. Baseline, 3-month and 6-month assessments occurred. The intervention included both text messaging and video visits with behavioral coaches and physical therapists to monitor activity levels, review and modify exercise plans, , and enhance motivation and self-efficacy. Our primary aim was to establish the feasibility of recruitment, enrollment, and adherence of the exercise intervention. Our secondary objective was to evaluate changes in fitness (6 minute walk test, grip strength, and the Short Physical Performance Battery). Results: Between 11/18/2019-03/04/2020, 9 participants enrolled on the study (goal of 20). New enrollment was halted due to the COVID-19 pandemic. Median age of the participants was 70 (range 65-86). Six (67%) were female. Eight participants (89%) completed the 6-month intervention. Participants completed 97.8% of the scheduled visits. At 3 and 6 months there was a mean change of moderate/vigorous activity of 26.0% (SD 89.6%) and -0.5% (SD 56.4%) respectively. At 3 and 6 months there was a mean change in step count per day of -5.1% (SD 25.3%) and -1.3% (SD 32.2%) respectively. Overall fitness was preserved over the 6-month period. Conclusions: Prior to COVID-19 pandemic, the study was on track to meet feasibility endpoints of recruitment, enrollment, and retention. The primary endpoint of increasing physical activity was not met. However, adults in our region experienced a 20-30% reduction in physical activity during the pandemic [10]. In the target population, reductions in the absence of intervention may have been even greater, given their pronounced vulnerability to COVID-19 complications. Thus, the true benefits of the intervention may have been difficult to detect during this period. Lack of a control arm is a limiting factor in making further conclusions about the potential benefits of our intervention.