Prospective Single-Arm Feasibility of Supervised Virtual Exercise in Women Living with Ovarian Cancer: The BE-BALANCED Study

Abstract

Background: Access to exercise programming that addresses the unique needs of women living with and beyond ovarian cancer is limited. Feasible and accessible supportive care programs to enhance physical function and quality of life are needed. We aimed to assess the feasibility of a 12-week virtually delivered exercise program for women living with and beyond ovarian cancer. Methods: BE-BALANCED was a prospective single-arm feasibility pilot study. Women who had completed primary chemotherapy treatment of ovarian cancer within the past year were recruited through oncologist referrals or self-referral. The 12-week group exercise program targeting aerobic capacity, functional strength, balance, and range of motion was conducted virtually twice weekly using Zoom. Feasibility measures were accrual, attendance, adherence, and attrition. Physical function was evaluated using the Short Physical Performance Battery and selected components of the Senior Fitness Test. Results: Fourteen participants enrolled in the study (47% of the accrual target). Feasibility goals for the exercise sessions were met for attendance (84% ± 19%), adherence to virtual sessions (78% ± 19%), and fidelity of group belonging (18% ± 4%), and met for overall attrition (21%). Improvements were observed in gait speed, 30-second bicep curls, 6-minute walk, chair stand, and emotional well-being (P < .05). Participant satisfaction with the program was high (4.4/5). Conclusion: Our findings demonstrated the feasibility of a virtually delivered exercise program for women living with and beyond ovarian cancer, with favorable attendance, adherence, and safety data. The program showed potential in improving physical outcomes and quality of life for participants. However, recruitment was a challenge. Future interventions could consider different approaches to increase recruitment.