| Problem: Testicular germ cell cancer is highly treatable. While often curative, treatment can increase risk of cardiovascular complications. This review presents existing evidence of cardiovascular disease in testicular germ cell cancer patients and the potential benefits of prescriptive aerobic exercise based on the principles of training. Methods: In conducting this literature review, the Weill Cornell Medical College Library was used to search published articles through PubMed and MEDLINE. Appropriate search terms were chosen, which include: "testicular cancer" or "germ cell cancer" combined with "exercise" and "cardiovascular function." Studies in pediatric patients (<18 years) were excluded. Relevant reference lists were hand-searched. Results: A total of three randomized controlled trials in testicular germ cell cancer patients were found in the search. Conclusion: This literature review elucidates why testicular germ cell cancer patients are at risk for cardiovascular disease and how aerobic exercise can be advantageous in this patient population. While initial randomized controlled trials show promise, it is currently unknown if precise, individualized exercise prescriptions are superior to general recommendations. Advances in wearable biological monitoring devices provide a means of objectively monitoring duration and intensity of exercise sessions, and may be helpful in assessing the effect of individualized exercise prescriptions in future studies. |
