Completed Research Project

Development of a hydraulic resistance exercise treatment for prostate cancer patients

Investigators: Galvão D, Nosaka K, Taaffe D, Spry N, Kristjanson L, McGuigan M, Suzuki K, Yamaya K, Newton R

Funding: Edith Cowan University Faculty Small Grant ($68,418).

Abstract:  Purpose: To examine the effect of progressive resistance training on muscle function, functional performance, balance, body composition and muscle thickness in men receiving androgen deprivation for prostate cancer. Methods: Ten men aged (59-82 years) on androgen deprivation for localised prostate cancer undertook progressive resistance training for 20 weeks at 6-12 repetition maximum for 12 upper and lower body exercises in a University exercise rehabilitation clinic. Outcome measures included muscle strength and muscle endurance for the upper and lower body, functional performance (repeated chair rise, usual and fast 6-m walk, 6-m backwards walk, stair climb, and 400-m walk time) and balance by sensory organization test. Body composition was measured by dual energy x-ray absorptiometry and muscle thickness at four anatomical sites by B-Mode ultrasound.  Blood samples were assessed for prostate specific antigen (PSA), testosterone, growth hormone (GH), cortisol, and hemoglobin. Results: Muscle strength (chest press, 40.5%; seated row, 41.9%; leg press, 96.3%; p < 0.001) and muscle endurance (chest press, 114.9%; leg press, 167.1%; p < 0.001) significantly increased following training. Significant improvement (p < 0.05) occurred in the 6-m usual walk (14.1%), 6-m backwards walk (22.3%), chair rise (26.8%), stair climbing (10.4%), 400-m walk (7.4%) and balance (7.8%). Muscle thickness increased (p < 0.05) by 15.7% at the quadriceps site. Whole body lean mass was preserved with no change in fat mass. There were no significant changes in PSA, testosterone, GH, cortisol, or hemoglobin. Conclusions: Progressive resistance exercise has beneficial effects on muscle strength, functional performance and balance in older men receiving androgen deprivation for prostate cancer and should be considered to preserve body composition and reduce treatment side effects. Study has been completed and paper accepted for publication in Medicine and Science in Sports and Exercise.