Approximately 50,000 Australians live with a stoma.
Stomas are created when structures associated with waste elimination are removed, usually as a result of cancer. The remaining body part is then diverted through the abdominal wall, where it discharges body waste into an externally attached pouch. Such exposure of a previously hidden organ and elimination process profoundly changes a person’s physical and emotional well-being.
Exercise improves well-being after cancer, but there are distinct impediments for this group that are not considered in exercise guidelines. These include functional issues related to pouch placement, fear of herniation, and embarrassment about potential exposure of pouch contents during vigorous movement. Yet an inactive lifestyle compounds the already heightened risk of further chronic conditions (e.g., heart disease, diabetes, cancer recurrence) of this vulnerable group.
Dr Janine Porter-Steele OAM is leading a team of researchers to change this.
The FOXTROT study, funded through the Wesley Research Institute Clinical Grant Rounds, is exploring how a targeted exercise program for a person living with a stoma because of cancer treatment may improve quality of life and exercise enjoyment, as well as increase levels of physical activity.
About the research
Each week for 12-weeks participants will meet with an exercise physiologist via a video call and perform a supervised exercise session as well as discuss strategies and plans for the participant’s unique circumstances to increase opportunities for self-directed exercise and physical activity.
If you have a family member, friend or patient who may be eligible to take part in the research, get in touch with Brent directly at foxtrot@griffith.edu.au or by submitting an EOI via the button below.
Learn more about the Foxtrot – https://www.wesleyresearch.org.au/research-project/foxtrot/