Date Approved

6-29-2026

Graduate Degree Type

Project

Degree Name

Occupational Therapy (M.S.)

Degree Program

Occupational Science and Therapy

First Advisor

Claire Dolislager

Second Advisor

Scott Truskowski

Third Advisor

Emily Metcalf

Academic Year

2025/2026

Abstract

Background:

Oncology prehabilitation aims to optimize patients’ physical and psychosocial function before cancer treatment, yet the specific contributions of occupational therapy (OT) remain underexplored.

Objective:

This scoping review aims to map and synthesize the existing literature describing the role and reported benefits of OT within oncology prehabilitation programs.

Methodology:

Following Arksey and O’Malley’s (2005) scoping review framework and guided by the PRISMA-ScR checklist, three databases (PubMed, CINAHL, and Web of Science) were searched. Search terms included preoperative exercise, prehabilitation, neoplasms, and cancer. Articles were screened by two independent reviewers, and data were charted and analyzed descriptively and thematically.

Results:

A total of 184 studies met inclusion criteria. Reported prehabilitation interventions included education, targeted exercise, general exercise, counseling, habits, and journaling. Three key themes emerged: (1) OT involvement is limited by unclear roles and restricted research focus, (2) missed opportunities in cancer prehabilitation, and (3) OT’s underutilized role in holistic cancer prehabilitation: addressing gaps.

Conclusion:

Findings highlight OT’s valuable yet underrepresented role in oncology prehabilitation. Future research should include OT-specific pre/post intervention studies and cost-effectiveness analyses to strengthen evidence and support routine inclusion of OT in cancer care pathways.

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