Impact of Hypertrophy-oriented Resistance Training on Muscle Mass and Quality of Life in Patients With Unresectable Pancreatic Cancer

Impact of Hypertrophy-oriented Resistance Training on Muscle Mass and Quality of Life in Patients With Unresectable Pancreatic Cancer (HY-PANC): Study Protocol for a Randomized Controlled Trial.

To determine the efficacy of a 12-week supervised, hypertrophy-oriented strength training program in preserving skeletal muscle mass, physical function, and quality of life in patients with unresectable pancreatic cancer compared to standard care.

Two-arm randomized controlled trial will recruit patients with unresectable pancreatic cancer undergoing chemotherapy. Participants will be randomized (1:1) to an Intervention Group (resistance training twice weekly) or a Control Group (standard care). The primary outcome is the change in total lean body mass (assessed by DXA) at week 12. Secondary outcomes include maximal strength, peak power, cardiorespiratory capacity, and patient-reported measures.

Inclusion Criteria:

• Diagnosis of locally advanced or metastatic unresectable pancreatic cancer
• Undergoing chemotherapy or immunotherapy treatment
• Age ≥ 18 years
• ECOG score ≤ 2

Exclusion Criteria:

• Any relative or absolute contraindication that prevents the performance of training or physical tests.
• Diagnosis of other types of primary cancer
• Inability to understand Spanish for proper comprehension of the informed consent and questionnaires