Persistent fatigue following allogeneic bone marrow transplantation

Persistent fatigue following allogeneic bone marrow
transplantation – can we break the cycle?

This Austin Health project was supported by a NEMICS service improvement grant. The aim of this project was to evaluate the feasibility and effectiveness of an eight-week tailored exercise program to reduce persistent fatigue in patients post-allogeneic haematopoietic stem cell transplantation (alloHSCT).

Impact

This project addressed patient-centred care by targeting persistent fatigue post-HSCT in acute myeloid leukemia patients, involving consumers in design and evaluation. Utilizing telehealth improved trial access and supported workforce skill-building in survivorship care. The collaboration between medical and allied health teams established unique partnerships, enhancing capacity to deliver evidence-based supportive care. Findings on the feasibility and effectiveness of combined aerobic and resistance training will guide future service development and knowledge dissemination.

Outcome 

The exercise program had high recruitment rates, retention, and compliance. It led to statistically significant improvements in fatigue measures, physical fitness, overall quality of life, and depression/anxiety symptoms addressing survivorship issues for this group of patients. Austin Health has determined that an 8-week, individualised exercise program for patients with persistent fatigue, more than 6 months following haematopoietic stem cell transplantation is feasible and effective in reducing fatigue.

Contact

Dr Genevieve Douglas, genevieve.douglas2@austin.org.au