Researchers enrolled people with lymphoma who were receiving standard six-cycle chemotherapy. They tested a virtual program with weekly online coaching for diet and exercise.
Seventy-two people joined the study. Some participants got the program right away and others were on a waitlist as a control group. Most eligible patients joined and attendance for diet and exercise sessions was high. People who used the program reported less anxiety, less pain, and less fatigue than the waitlist group, and they had better grip strength and physical performance during treatment.
Difficult words
- lymphoma — A cancer of the lymphatic system.
- chemotherapy — Treatment using drugs to kill cancer cells.
- virtual — Happening online, not in a clinic.
- enroll — To join a study or program.enrolled
- eligible — Allowed to take part in something.
- attendance — How often people come to sessions.
- fatigue — A strong feeling of tiredness.
- grip strength — How strong a person's hand is.
Tip: hover, focus or tap highlighted words in the article to see quick definitions while you read or listen.
Discussion questions
- Would you join a weekly online diet and exercise program during medical treatment? Why or why not?
- Which part of the program (diet or exercise) do you think would help most? Explain briefly.
- Have you ever attended an online health or fitness session? What was it like?
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