More people with lung cancer in Yorkshire could have life-saving surgery thanks to new clinical trial

People with lung cancer in Yorkshire are being given the opportunity to take part in a new clinical trial funded by Yorkshire Cancer Research, which is exploring whether exercise during treatment can help more of them go on to have life-saving surgery.

Each year, more than 4,800 people in England could benefit from a new NHS-approved treatment that combines chemotherapy and immunotherapy before surgery and provides immunotherapy after surgery.

However, one in five people who start the treatment are unable to have surgery, and this significantly affects survival.

Existing research shows that exercise before surgery can increase access to previously unsuitable treatments, lead to fewer complications from surgery and reduce the number of days people spend recovering in hospital.

Led by experts at the University of Hull and Hull York Medical School, the study, called NEOREHAB, will explore whether a personalised physical activity programme can improve fitness and wellbeing for people receiving ‘chemo-immunotherapy’, helping more reach surgery and recover well afterwards.

It will benefit people receiving lung cancer treatment at Leeds Teaching Hospital NHS Trust (LTHT) and NHS Humber Health Partnership*, with clinicians identifying those who are suitable to take part.

Cecilia Pompili, a thoracic surgeon and Clinical Senior Lecturer in Psychosocial Oncology at the University of Hull said: “There is a limited timeframe for exercise before surgery, and this means people need fast access to programmes and high motivation to both start exercise quickly and continue to follow their fitness programmes.

"This study will explore whether an integrated exercise programme can be delivered to improve the chances that all people with cancer who start chemo-immunotherapy will be able to have surgery.”

The programme will be designed to fit around people’s lives and treatment schedules, combining in-person support with home-based exercises.

An exercise physiologist will work closely with people in cancer clinics to assess their strength, endurance and cardiovascular fitness. Based on these assessments, each person will receive tailored advice and support to help them stay active and healthy throughout their treatment.

Participants will also share information about their quality of life and symptoms before, during and after treatment. Some will take part in interviews to help researchers understand what it’s like to join the programme and make decisions about their care.

Lung cancer is the leading cause of cancer death in Yorkshire. In 2024, 4,601 people were diagnosed with lung cancer in the region, and more than 37,000 life years were lost. Improving access to surgery and supporting people to feel stronger and more confident during treatment could save lives and reduce inequalities in care.

* NHS Humber Health Partnership is the collective name for Hull University Teaching Hospitals NHS Trust and Northern Lincolnshire and Goole NHS Foundation Trust working in partnership.