Pilot Study of Incentive Spirometry to Reduce Lung Complications in Patients with Advanced Non-Small-Cell Lung Cancer Receiving Chemotherapy and Radiation Therapy

What this Trial Is About

Researchers are evaluating whether using an incentive spirometer can reduce lung complications in people with advanced non-small-cell lung cancer who are receiving chemotherapy and radiation therapy together. The study aims to find out if this device lowers the chances of lung inflammation called pneumonitis and if it improves overall survival and quality of life. This pilot study focuses on patients eligible for combined chemo and radiation treatment with immunotherapy maintenance. Participants will use an incentive spirometer, a device that encourages deep breathing, by taking 10 breaths every hour while awake. They will start using the device as soon as they join the study and continue daily through their chemoradiation treatment phase about 6 to 8 weeks and for up to three months after treatment ends. The study involves one group receiving this intervention alongside their standard cancer care. During the study, participants will complete quality of life questionnaires and undergo pulmonary function tests at the start and at 3, 6, and 12 months after treatment. Researchers will monitor adherence to the spirometry routine through patient logs and check-ins. The main outcome measured is the incidence of pneumonitis over 12 months, along with the severity of pneumonitis and overall survival. The total participation time is approximately one year, including follow-up assessments.

Incentive Spirometry to Improve Outcomes in Lung Cancer Patients Undergoing Concurrent Chemotherapy and Radiation Therapy