Physical Activity, Symptoms, Quality of Life and Exercise Program Preferences in People with Chronic Lymphocytic Leukemia

BackgroundChronic lymphocytic leukaemia (CLL) has a heterogeneous lifelong course. Most patients experience significant symptoms which negatively impact their quality of life (QoL). Although physical activity and exercise may help manage symptoms, it is unclear what disease-related factors drive physical inactivity in people with CLL. MethodsThis study explored physical activity in CLL and assessed relationships in treatment stage, symptoms, quality of life, and preferences for physical activity using an online questionnaire. Results128 individuals with CLL (66M/62F) completed the questionnaire. Treated CLL (N=55) exhibited worse QoL (p=0.018) and lower engagement in physical activity (p=0.045) compared to treatment naive (N=73). Both groups reported high fatigue ([~]77%) and insomnia ([~]55%) which were associated with less likelihood of being physically active. Physically active participants reported better QoL (p=0.020), physical functioning (P=0.003) and role functioning (p=0.020) as well as lower levels of fatigue (p=0.036), pain (p=0.017) and symptom burden (p=0.026). Although 79% of respondents wanted to engage in exercise programs for their CLL, 70% reported never receiving exercise guidance from their healthcare professionals. ConclusionFindings highlight a significant need for interventions to increase physical activity in people with CLL. Furthermore, there is considerable interest from the CLL community in receiving exercise guidance.