Purpose: The aim of this review was to collect data on physical exercise programs in patients with HNC and to analyze the compliance with the Frecuency, Intensity, Time and Type (FITT) and progressive overload principles. Methods: The search strategy identified 1318 articles through February 2022. After deduplication, title and abstract review, and full-text review, 15 studies met all the inclusion criteria. The inclusion criteria were randomized controlled trials (RCTs) with interventions involving at least 10 patients, and the intervention protocol included, at least, programmed strength exercise. Results: Physical exercise programs were performed only during and after treatment, with durations varying from 6 to 12 weeks. Only 5 studies (33.3%) detailed all the characteristics concerning FITT and progressive overload principles. In addition, 10 trials measured the changes in body composition and physical function. In contrast, 6 studies included nutritional recommendations or follow-up. Conclusion: It has been proven that physical exercise programs may help people with head and neck cancer improve their body composition, strength, and quality of life. To examine the dose/response effects of physical activity more precisely, further information regarding FITT principles and the progression of the load undertaken in the treatments is required. Finally, it is necessary to investigate the optimal time to start a physical exercise program and its impact on survival.

This study is focused on the fact that in the context of increasing global aging and cancer diagnoses, additional challenges arise in clinical care. Adequate functionality and body composition are key to coping with antineoplastic treatment, which can lead to better treatment tolerance, survival, and quality of life. This is a cross-sectional comparative study focused on the assessment and comparison of body composition and functionality between cancer patients and a reference population, with the aim of establishing meaningful baseline values. Techniques such as manual dynamometry, the Five-Times Sit-to-Stand test, and bioimpedance were used to collect data from 374 oncologic patients and 1244 reference individuals. The results reveal significant disparities in functionality and body composition among participants, and provide age group-specific adjusted baseline values for those diagnosed with cancer. These findings may have crucial clinical implications for applying particular cut-off points designed for this population group, which makes the assessment process faster and more accurate, enhances the capacity of medical personnel to act quickly, and improves the management of frailty in cancer patients.