Exercise for Improving Prostate Oxygenation in Prostate Tumors (Exipox)

Exercise for Improving Prostate Oxygenation in Prostate Tumors (Exipox)-Study - a Pilot Study Exploring Exercise as a Way of Improving Cure With Radical Radiotherapy

Previous research into metabolic and hypoxic markers has found evidence of preclinical impact of exercise on prostate tumor blood flow and oxygenation in rodents . As radiotherapy is a frequently used and effective therapy for and that sufficient oxygenation is decisive to the effect of radiotherapy, an underlying hypothesis that aerobic exercise might improve treatment efficacy of radiotherapy in prostate cancer is put forward. This study has a potential challenging intervention, but a potential very high gain as it includes active patient participation to significantly improve outcome of radical radiotherapy.

A randomized controlled trial with four to five weeks of moderate/high intensity aerobic exercise program compared with no intervention for 32 prostate cancer patients waiting for radical prostatectomy at the University Hospital of North Norway (UNN). 16 patients will undergo the intervention. The expression of the hypoxic marker pimonidazole in the prostate specimens of intervention groups and the control groups will be assessed. This method is considered a reliable tissue oxygenation measurement technique. These patients will also have their and blood flow and hypoxia measured in prostate cancers through magnetic resonance imaging (MRIs).

Inclusion Criteria:

• diagnosed PC
• planned radical prostatectomy
• informed consent given
• above 18 years of age
• BMI < 30
• non-smoker
• living in Tromso region

Exclusion Criteria:

• Contraindications to the intervention like;

  • heart failure,
  • angina pectoris,
  • respiratory disease limiting possible intervention
  • use of physical supportive devices to aid movement

• High level of physical activity

• smoking

• BMI>30