NCT07216209 · University of Arizona
The Impact of Exercise on the Tumor Microenvironment in Patients With Lung Cancer
What this study is about
There is increased interest and knowledge about the lung cancer tumor microenvironment (TME). Investigators hypothesize that patients with better baseline physiologic health will have better post-operative outcomes and that strenuous exercise will alter the TME and genetic make-up of the tumor, improving the tumor immune response.
View original scientific description
There is increased interest and knowledge about the lung cancer tumor microenvironment (TME). Investigators hypothesize that patients with better baseline physiologic health will have better post-operative outcomes and that strenuous exercise will alter the TME and genetic make-up of the tumor, improving the tumor immune response. Investigators aim to identify the peri-operative and clinical outcomes that differ based on pre-operative VO2max, HRV and resting heart rate following resection of early-stage lung cancer. The physiologic states that are individual and measurable with wearable devices include but are not limited to VO2max, heart rate variability (HRV), and average resting heart rate. Investgators hypothesize that a patient's pre-operative physiologic function with higher VO2max, HRV and lower resting heart rate will be associated with improved peri-operative and post-operative outcomes. Second, investigators will compare alterations in TME based on targeted pre-operative exercise (60-80% of their VO2 max for 75min/week x2 weeks) compared to normal activity adults following resection of early-stage lung cancer. Investigators hypothesize that strenuous exercise in the pre-operative period will impact the TME by increasing levels of cytokines.
Who can participate
This study lists these criteria on ClinicalTrials.gov. A study coordinator reviews eligibility during screening — this page does not determine whether you qualify.
Inclusion criteria
- lung cancer
- low risk for submaximal exercise testing in accordance with the risk stratification guidelines published by the American Heart Association and the American College of Sports Medicine (AHA/ACSM criteria).
Exclusion criteria
- younger than 18 years of age
- select a condition on the ACSM-AHA pre-exercise screening questionnaire indicating that physician approval is required prior to exercise
- body mass index of \>30 kg/m2
- waist girth of \>102cm for men and \>88cm for women
- have chronic/debilitating arthritis
- have been bedridden in the past three months
- have common illness (i.e. colds) within the past 6-weeks
- history of stroke
- major affective disorder
- autoimmune disease
- pregnancy or are breast-feeding
- history of severe anaphylactic reaction to an allergen
- present with more than one of the following CVD risk factors: family history of myocardial infarction, coronary revascularization, or sudden death before 55 years of age in father or other male first-degree relative or before 65 years of age in mother or other female first-degree relative
Where
- Tucson, Arizona
Frequently asked questions
What is a clinical trial?
A clinical trial is a research study that tests new medical treatments, drugs, devices, or procedures to determine their safety and effectiveness. Trials are carefully designed and monitored to protect participants while advancing medical knowledge.
Is it safe to participate?
Clinical trials follow strict safety guidelines and ethical standards. Trials must be reviewed and approved, and participants are closely monitored by medical professionals throughout the study. You can withdraw at any time if you choose.
Will I be compensated?
Many clinical trials offer compensation for your time, travel expenses, and inconvenience. The specific compensation varies by study and will be discussed during the screening process. All study-related medical care is typically provided at no cost to participants.
Will I receive a placebo instead of treatment?
When effective treatment exists, participants typically receive either the standard treatment plus the study intervention, or the standard treatment plus placebo. You would not be denied effective care. Placebos are primarily used when no proven treatment is available, or in addition to standard care. Your trial consent form will clearly explain what treatments you may receive.
Can I leave a trial if I change my mind?
Absolutely. Participation in clinical trials is completely voluntary. You have the right to withdraw from the study at any time, for any reason, without penalty or loss of benefits to which you are otherwise entitled.
How long does a clinical trial last?
Trial duration varies widely depending on the study design and purpose. Some trials last just a few weeks, while others may continue for months or years. The study coordinator will provide specific timeline information during your screening call.
Data: ClinicalTrials.gov · synced Apr 21, 2026 · Source of record for eligibility and locations