A longitudinal study of physical function in patients undergoing allogeneic stem cell transplant: The REACT Study Protocol

<ns5:p>Background Current treatments for haematological cancers are associated with improved survival rates; however, they are also associated with significant toxicity and long periods of hospitalization, which may negatively affect patients’ quality of life and physical performance. Haematological stem cell transplant (HSCT) is a potentially curative treatment option however remains a high-toxicity treatment with a high risk of severe complications. It is unclear what rehabilitation is needed by patients undergoing HSCT. The primary objective of this study is to investigate the impact of allogeneic HSCT on subjective and objective measures of physical performance. Methods and Analysis REACT is a prospective, longitudinal cohort study. Participants will be recruited from the National Adult Allogeneic Transplant Programme in Ireland. Five assessments will be completed at two timepoints prior to transplant and three timepoints following transplant (3, 6 and 12 months). Assessments will include both an objective measure of physical function (Short Physical Performance Battery) and a subjective measure (WHODAS 2.0). Additional data collected will include patient-reported outcomes, anthropometric measurements, measures of healthcare-utilization and sociodemographic, clinical and social environment characteristics. An embedded qualitative study will examine patients’ experiences of the impact of allogeneic transplantation on physical function and activity levels within a subgroup of participants. Discussion This prospective cohort study will provide important insights into the physical performance trajectory of patients undergoing allogeneic HSCT. By combining objective and subjective assessments across multiple timepoints, the REACT study will clarify the extent and pattern of functional decline and recovery following transplant. The inclusion of patient-reported outcomes, healthcare utilisation data, and qualitative feedback will offer a comprehensive understanding of the multidimensional rehabilitation needs and priorities of this population. Ultimately, the findings will help inform the development of targeted, evidence-based rehabilitation pathways to support recovery, enhance quality of life, and optimise long-term outcomes for individuals undergoing allogeneic HSCT.</ns5:p>