Exercise program for improving health after stem cell transplant

The Effect of High-intensity Interval Training (HIIT) and Resistance Training on Function, Health, and Quality of Life Outcomes Following Hematopoietic Stem Cell Transplant

Not applicable Interventional Duke University · NCT05238376

This study tests whether a 12-week exercise program can help people feel better and improve their health after having a stem cell transplant.

Quick facts

PhaseNot applicable
Study typeInterventional
Enrollment70 (estimated)
Ages18 Years to 80 Years
SexAll
SponsorDuke University Academic / other
Locations1 site (Durham, North Carolina)
Trial IDNCT05238376 on ClinicalTrials.gov

What this trial studies

This project investigates the effects of a 12-week high-intensity interval training (HIIT) and resistance training program on various health domains in patients who have undergone hematopoietic stem cell transplant (HCT). The study aims to assess improvements in physical function, cognitive function, mental health, and quality of life for patients, as well as the impact on caregiver strain and confidence. Participants will be monitored for safety through cardiopulmonary exercise testing to ensure they can safely engage in the exercise regimen.

Who should consider this trial

Good fit: Ideal candidates include adults aged 18 and older who are within 90 days post-allogenic HCT and are English-speaking.

Not a fit: Patients with absolute contraindications to exercise or significant cardiac issues may not benefit from this program.

Why it matters

Potential benefit: If successful, this program could significantly enhance the overall health and quality of life for patients recovering from hematologic malignancies.

How similar studies have performed: Other studies have shown positive outcomes with exercise interventions in similar patient populations, suggesting this approach may be effective.

Eligibility criteria

Show full inclusion / exclusion criteria
Patient Inclusion Criteria:

1. ≥18 years old
2. English speaking
3. Within 90 ± 30 days post allogenic HCT

Caregiver Inclusion Criteria:

1. ≥18 years old
2. English speaking
3. Providing post-discharge care for the patient who has undergone HCT

Patient and Caregiver Exclusion Criteria:

1. Have an absolute contraindication to exercise including a recent acute cardiac event (\<6 months), unstable angina, uncontrolled dysthymias causing symptoms or hemodynamic compromise, symptomatic aortic stenosis, uncontrolled symptomatic heart failure, acute pulmonary embolus, acute myocarditis or pericarditis, suspects or known dissecting aneurism, or coronary artery disease.
2. In addition to these absolute contraindications, the patient and caregiver will complete cardiopulmonary exercise testing (CPET) where the heart rate and heart rhythm will be monitored via a 12-lead ECG before, during, and after the test. The results from the CPET will be reviewed by a physician before the subject is cleared to participate in the HIIT and resistance training program. If the participant is not cleared by the physician following the CPET, then the patient and his or her caregiver will not be eligible to participate in the study.

Where this trial is running

Durham, North Carolina

Study contacts

How to participate

  1. Review the eligibility criteria above with your treating physician.
  2. Visit the official trial page on ClinicalTrials.gov for the most current contact information and recruitment status.
  3. Contact the listed study coordinator or principal investigator to request pre-screening. Pre-screening is free and never obligates you to enroll.
Conditions Hematologic Malignancy
Last reviewed 2026-06-09 by the Find a Trial editorial team. Information on this page is for educational purposes and is not medical advice. Always consult qualified healthcare professionals about clinical trial participation.