Learning Objective #1: Describe the effect of exercise interventions on physical function outcomes among people currently or recently treated for cancer

Learning Objective #2: Discuss the similarities and differences between the two-group and single-group findings

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Objectives: This review applied meta-analytic procedures to integrate primary research findings that tested exercise interventions to improve physical function among people treated for cancer. Methods: Extensive literature searching strategies located published and unpublished intervention studies that tested exercise interventions with at least 5 participants. Primary study results were coded. Meta-analytic procedures were conducted using random effects models. Analyses were conducted separately for two- and single-group design studies. Single-group analyses were conducted under assumptions of null (0) and strong associations (.80) between pre and post scores. Results: The statistically significant overall weighted mean effect size for two-group comparisons was .52 (variance = .23) for physical function. Single group analysis documented a significant mean effect of .70 (variance = .29) for the assumption of no association and a mean effect of .72 (variance = .42) for the assumption of high association. Effect sizes among control group participants were essentially 0. Moderator analyses revealed effect sizes were larger among predominantly breast cancer samples and in studies that used supervised exercise but did not include exercise prescription or fitness testing. Effect sizes were similar when interventions were conducted concurrently with cancer treatment or following treatment. Conclusions: Exercise interventions resulted in positive effects on physical function among adults currently or recently treated for cancer. Future research should examine intervention specific characteristics such as dose that result in optimal results.