Relationship of physical activity with physical function and health-related quality of life in patients having undergone allogeneic haematopoietic stem-cell transplantation

Abstract

In this study, we investigated the differences in physical activity before and after transplantation, and the relationship between physical activity and physical function and health-related quality of life (QOL) in 30 patients who underwent allogeneic haematopoietic stem cell transplantation (allo-HSCT). Duration and intensity of physical activity were quantified using a three-dimensional accelerometer. Physical function was quantified by handgrip and knee-extensor strength, with the 6-minute walk test (6MWT) used as a measure of exercise capacity. Health-related QOL was assessed using the 36-item Short-Form Health Survey. The proportion of daily activities performed at an intensity >3.0 metabolic equivalents (METs) increased significantly after allo-HSCT (p < .05). Daily activity time performed at an intensity of 1.6-2.9 METs significantly correlated only with left knee strength (p < .05). In contrast, the total number of daily steps and the proportion of activity performed at 1.6-2.9 METs and >3.0 METs were positively correlated with the 6MWT (p < .05). Additionally, physical functioning and general health subscales in health-related QOL positively correlated with daily activities performed at >3.0 METs (p < .05). Physical activity was associated with 6MWT and health-related QOL. These findings have implications for rehabilitation planning for patients undergoing allo-HSCT.