Abstract PS1-13-01: Effects of a physical exercise protocol via telehealth on the quality of life and stress of women undergoing chemotherapy: a randomized clinical trial

Abstract Introduction: Although effective, chemotherapy is associated with physical and psychological adverse effects, including stress, which can impair quality of life (QoL). Physical exercise has been shown to effectively reduce stress and improve QoL in cancer patients. Telehealth has emerged as an alternative to expand access to exercise programs, overcoming logistical and financial barriers. Therefore, implementing telehealth-based exercise protocols for women undergoing chemotherapy is relevant to optimize comprehensive care in this population. Objetives: To evaluate the effect of a telehealth-based exercise protocol on quality of life and stress in women undergoing chemotherapy. Methods: This randomized clinical trial was approved by the Research Ethics Committee (47329721.6.0000.5402) and registered with the ReBEC (RBR-9mqyz6j). Forty-four women (48.36 ± 12.39 years) diagnosed with solid tumors and undergoing chemotherapy were randomized into an intervention group (IG, n=22) and a minimal intervention group (MIG, n=22). The IG performed a supervised telehealth exercise program, including flexibility, muscular endurance, cardiorespiratory fitness, and balance, three times per week for 20 minutes per session via video call. The MIG received guidance and follow-up to address questions regarding physical activity. QoL was assessed using the EORTC QLQ-C30 questionnaire (Global Health Status, Functional, and Symptom scales), where higher scores indicate better functioning and higher symptom burden. Physical and emotional stress was evaluated using Lipp's Stress Symptoms Inventory for Adults (alert ≥7 symptoms, resistance ≥4 symptoms, exhaustion ≥8 symptoms). For statistical analysis, ANOVA adjusted for age, sex, and socioeconomic status was applied to the EORTC QLQ-C30. Descriptive frequency analysis was used for the Lipp questionnaire, and the Smallest Worthwhile Change (SWC) index was applied to both questionnaires to identify clinically meaningful changes, complementing statistical tests. Results: The telehealth-based exercise protocol did not show statistically significant differences in QoL between groups. However, SWC analysis revealed slight improvements or maintenance in global health domains in the IG (improved: 8, maintained: 6, worsened: 8), as well as in the functional scale. Maintaining QoL values is considered a positive outcome, suggesting that interventions may help mitigate chemotherapy’s adverse effects. Evidence indicates that during chemotherapy, patients’ QoL tends to deteriorate regardless of treatment. Regarding stress, both groups showed increased symptom presence. SWC analysis revealed small clinical changes in the exhaustion phase and more pronounced improvements in the resistance phase in the IG (improved: 9, maintained: 4, worsened: 9) compared to the MIG (improved: 7, maintained: 0, worsened: 15). Conclusions: These findings suggest that the exercise protocol may have a more pronounced effect in the early stages of stress. The clinical relevance of this study lies in demonstrating that the telehealth-based exercise protocol may be effective in maintaining or improving QoL and reducing stress in this population. Citation Format: D. C. Silva, G. T. Tosello, D. G. D. Christofaro, W. R. Tebar. Effects of a physical exercise protocol via telehealth on the quality of life and stress of women undergoing chemotherapy: a randomized clinical trial [abstract]. In: Proceedings of the San Antonio Breast Cancer Symposium 2025; 2025 Dec 9-12; San Antonio, TX. Philadelphia (PA): AACR; Clin Cancer Res 2026;32(4 Suppl):Abstract nr PS1-13-01.