Adapted physical activity, exergaming and relaxation by biofeedback in haematological intensive care unit in France: study protocol of a randomised controlled trial (APAER-H trial).

Fiche publication

Date publication

décembre 2025

Journal

BMJ open

Auteurs

Membres identifiés du Cancéropôle Est :
Dr GOETZ Christophe , Pr BOLMONT Benoît , Dr DORVAUX Véronique

Tous les auteurs :
Bousmia J, Langlet C, Elnar AA, Goetz C, Bolmont B, Dorvaux V

Lien Pubmed

https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/41344711

Résumé

Haematological malignancies and their treatments are known for their significant adverse effects on health-related quality of life (QoL). During high-dose cytotoxic therapy in haematological intensive care units (HICU), adapted physical activity (APA) is recognised for its role in maintaining physical fitness and limiting fatigue. Psychological and emotional states are also impaired, with anxiety levels significantly increasing in this specific context. Limited information is available about this topic. However, APA has been shown to reduce anxiety in various populations, including oncological patients. Furthermore, adding new technology, such as exergaming or heart rate variability biofeedback (HRVB) relaxation tools, could be an effective way to regulate emotions during treatments while providing the health benefits of APA. APA, Exergaming and Relaxation by Biofeedback in Haematological Intensive Care Unit protocol is a randomised, controlled trial. Our study is designed to evaluate the effects of APA programmes during high-dose cytotoxic therapy in HICU on anxiety, fatigue level, functional capacities, immune system activity and global QoL. Additionally, we aim to analyse the added value of using specific devices, such as Exergaming and HRVB relaxation, on the aforementioned parameters. We expect a difference in effectiveness between the programmes concerning emotional regulation.