Abstract Cognitive impairments are common in patients living with glioblastoma (GB) and contribute significantly to the diminished quality of life, treatment adherence, and functional independence. Resistance training offers a practical approach to maintaining cognitive function. We present preliminary findings from a 12-week, circuit-based resistance training program tailored for GB patients undergoing active treatment. From March 2022 to December 2024, 53 patients met eligibility criteria and were referred to the study, 34 consented (64% accrual rate) and 16 have completed the study (2 ongoing; 50% completion rate). Participants were randomly allocated to either the exercise (EX) or wait-list control (CON) group. Depending on their individualized treatment plan, EX participants completed 3-6 weeks of in-person training, followed by 6-9 weeks of home-based, online-facilitated training 3-4 times/week for 25-30 minutes. Cognitive function was assessed at baseline and post-intervention using the Trail Making Test and the Hopkins Verbal Learning Test (HVLT). Change scores were calculated and analyzed using the Mann-Whitney U test. Preliminary results showed no statistically significant differences between EX (Md=-3.0, n=8) and CON (Md= .50, n=8) groups across HVLT Total Recall (U=38, p=.574), HVLT Learning Score (EX Md=-1.5, n=8; CON Md=1.0, n=8; U=50, p=.065), HVLT Delayed Recall (EX Md=.00, n=7; CON Md =-1.00, n=7; U=23, p=.902), Trail Making Test A (EX Md=.745, n=8; CON Md=-3.85, n=8; U=13, p=.050), and Trail Making Test B (EX Md=4.46, n=7; CON Md=1.12, n=8; U=31, p=.779). While these findings suggest no improvements following the intervention, ongoing analyses will explore potential moderators and clinically meaningful trends.
Keats et al. (Fri,) studied this question.