Pulmonary rehabilitation improves exercise capacity, health-related quality of life, and cardiopulmonary function in patients with non-small cell lung cancer

Abstract Background Lung cancer significantly impairs exercise capacity and health-related quality of life (HRQL). Pulmonary rehabilitation (PR) has demonstrated positive effects on exercise capacity and HRQL in lung cancer patients. However, its impact on cardiopulmonary function needs further exploration. The aim of this study was to explore the effects of PR on cardiopulmonary function, exercise capacity and HRQL in patients with lung cancer. Methods Patients with lung cancer were enrolled in a 12-week PR program. Each participant underwent a thorough evaluation, which included spirometry, cardiopulmonary exercise testing, respiratory muscle strength test, and evaluation of HRQL using the Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease Assessment Test (CAT). Results Fifty-six patients completed the PR program. Following PR, exercise capacity significantly improved, as evidenced by increased peak oxygen uptake and work rate (both p