Clinical Research Directory

Low Load Blood Flow Restriction Resistance Training in Colorectal Cancer Related Sarcopenia

PURPOSE: To investigate the effects of low-load resistance training combined with blood flow restriction on muscle strength, functional performance, and cancer-related fatigue in colorectal cancer survivors with probable sarcopenia. BACKGROUND: Muscle weakness and cancer-related fatigue are prevalent in colorectal cancer survivors with probable sarcopenia and are associated with adverse outcomes (Brown et al., 2022; Caan et al., 2018). High-load resistance training is often poorly tolerated in this population (Schmitz et al., 2019). Although low-load resistance training with blood flow restriction shows promise, CRC-specific randomized evidence remains limited (Patterson et al., 2019; Arnold et al., 2017). HYPOTHESES: It is hypothesized that low-load blood flow restriction resistance training will lead to significant improvements in muscle strength and functional performance, and a significant reduction in cancer-related fatigue in colorectal cancer survivors with probable sarcopenia. RESEARCH QUESTION: Does low-load blood flow restriction resistance training will lead to significant improvements in muscle strength and functional performance, and a significant reduction in cancer-related fatigue in colorectal cancer survivors with probable sarcopenia?

Testing the Feasibility of a Virtual Application to Support Breast and Colorectal Cancer Survivors

The goal of this study is to determine the feasibility of implementing a mobile health application for breast and colorectal cancer survivors following primary treatment. Developed in collaboration with Seamless MD, the intervention acts as an information hub, providing users with timely and evidence-based information related to follow-up care as well as health system/community-based resources and programs to meet their needs during this period of care. The goal of the intervention is to encourage open communication regarding survivorship expectations and provide survivors with appropriate information and support to meet their needs. This study will: 1. Test the feasibility of implementing the virtual intervention at two cancer centres in Atlantic Canada (Nova Scotia and New Brunswick) 2. Gather feedback regarding the intervention from cancer survivors and healthcare providers. Participants will have access to the intervention for a period of six months. Questionnaires will be distributed to participants through the intervention at baseline, 90 days, and 180 days to assess user experience. Semi-structured interviews will be conducted with select survivor participants and healthcare providers (oncology and primary care) to determine the feasibility and acceptability of this intervention.