Feasibility and acceptability of a home‐based resistance training intervention in adolescent and young adult hematopoietic cell transplant survivors

Background Adolescent and young adult (AYA) hematopoietic cell transplantation (HCT) survivors are at increased risk of metabolic syndrome and lean body mass (LBM) deficits. Resistance training (RT) is a potential intervention to improve LBM, metabolic fitness, and reduce risk of cardiovascular disease. Procedure Eligible participants ages 13-39 years, 80-120 days post-HCT, transfusion independent, and prednisone dose ≤1 mg/kg/day were approached. Baseline assessments of body composition (DXA), anthropometrics, and strength testing were completed and participants were taught a 12-week, home-based RT intervention with weekly remote coaching. Follow-up assessments were at day +200 (FU1) and +365 post-HCT (FU2). Feasibility targets were (a) 60% enrollment of approached patients, (b) 80% completion of weekly phone calls, and (c) 80% completion of the RT intervention and FU1 assessments. Acceptability was based on positive responses in qualitative interviews. Results Twenty of 31 (65%) eligible AYAs enrolled. Three participants failed to complete baseline measurements (2 = scheduling barriers, 1 = passive refusal) and four participants who completed baseline assessments did not receive the intervention (1 = medical reasons, 2 = no longer interested). Of those who completed baseline assessments, 13 received the intervention, completed 88.5% of coaching calls, and 11 (65%) completed FU1. LBM (kg) increased or remained unchanged in nine of nine participants with complete body composition data at FU1 (mean 1.1 kg; 95%CI: 0.4, 1.9). All participants who completed FU1 reported they would recommend the intervention to an AYA HCT survivor. Conclusions A home-based RT intervention in AYA HCT survivors early post HCT is both feasible and acceptable and may maintain or increase LBM.