Understanding the NEXTAC-TWO Trial Results
What Was the Trial About?
The NEXTAC-TWO trial looked at whether a special program combining nutrition and exercise could help older patients with advanced pancreatic or non-small cell lung cancer live without needing extra care for a longer time. This program included home exercises and nutritional advice, along with supplements to help with muscle health.
What Did the Trial Find?
- The program was well-received, with most patients completing it.
- However, the results showed that there was no significant difference in how long patients could live without needing care compared to those who did not participate in the program.
- Both groups had similar disability-free survival times, around 478 days for the NEXTAC group and 499 days for the control group.
What Does This Mean for Patients and Clinics?
While the NEXTAC program was followed closely by patients, it did not lead to better outcomes in terms of living without needing care. This suggests that while nutrition and exercise are important, they may not be enough on their own to improve survival without disability in these patients.
Real-World Opportunities
- Hospitals can continue to offer nutrition and exercise programs as part of cancer care, but they should manage expectations about the outcomes.
- Doctors can encourage patients to stay active and eat well, as these are still important for overall health.
What Should Clinics Track?
- Monitor patients’ weight and muscle mass regularly.
- Assess physical activity levels and nutritional intake.
- Keep track of any changes in patients’ need for care or disability status.
AI Tools to Consider
- AI can help track patient progress by analyzing data on weight, muscle mass, and activity levels.
- AI tools can also provide personalized nutrition and exercise recommendations based on individual patient needs.
Step-by-Step Plan for Clinics
- Start by offering the NEXTAC program to a small group of patients.
- Gather feedback and track their progress closely.
- Adjust the program based on patient responses and outcomes.
- Gradually expand the program to include more patients as you learn what works best.
Learn More About the Research
For more details on the NEXTAC-TWO trial, you can read the full study here.
