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Alford CM, Wahlquist AE, Sterba KR, Warren GW, Balasubramanian S. A quality improvement study on the feasibility and potential benefits of a yogic breathing program for cancer survivors and caregivers during treatment in a lodging facility. BRAIN BEHAVIOR AND IMMUNITY INTEGRATIVE 2023; 3:100019. [PMID: 37933225 PMCID: PMC10626556 DOI: 10.1016/j.bbii.2023.100019] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/08/2023]
Abstract
Background Complementary and integrative health approaches with a focus on relieving side effects of cancer treatment are popular among cancer patients. Previous studies have investigated the combined effects of yoga postures, breathing, and meditation, but the specific effects of the breathing component are under-reported. Our previous studies indicate that yogic breathing can improve salivary biomarker expression related to stress, immune response, and tumor suppression. We aim to assess the acceptability and feasibility of a yogic breathing program in cancer patients and caregivers during the treatment period. Methods In this quality improvement study, we designed a 20-minute yogic breathing regimen and introduced them to all-site cancer patients and their caregivers during the cancer treatment period at a lodging facility, Hope Lodge in Charleston, SC. All interested participants were included as there were no eligibility criteria set for the study. The availability of the class was advertised via intercom, displays, and word of mouth. Participants were taught five different breathing exercises, and after completion of the exercises in a single session, a self-reported quality improvement questionnaire was administered assessing sociodemographic/clinical factors, expectations about the session, and ratings of satisfaction with the session. Results During the nine months of the data collection period, 52 participants provided feedback of which patients and caregivers were almost equal numbers. Participants' perception of intervention acceptance, symptom management, satisfaction with the sessions, and future needs for practice indicate that the yogic breathing sessions help improve some of the key symptoms of cancer experience such as stress. Conclusion Findings indicate that yogic breathing is acceptable to patients and caregivers and may help alleviate some of the side effects resulting from cancer treatment, and the intervention is feasible at lodging facilities during treatment. Currently, the yogic breathing sessions are conducted on a weekly basis by Hope Lodge volunteers trained by the study team.
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Affiliation(s)
- Christina M. Alford
- Hollings Cancer Center’s South Carolina Cancer Health Equity Consortium Fellow, University of South Carolina, Columbia, SC, USA
| | | | | | - Graham W. Warren
- Department of Radiation Oncology, Hollings Cancer Center, Medical University of South Carolina, Charleston, SC 29425, USA
| | - Sundaravadivel Balasubramanian
- Department of Radiation Oncology, Hollings Cancer Center, Medical University of South Carolina, Charleston, SC 29425, USA
- PranaScience Institute, Mount Pleasant, SC 29464, USA
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Li X, Wang J, Zhang J, Zhang N, Wu C, Geng Z, Zhou J, Dong L. The Effect of Exercise on Weight and Body Composition of Breast Cancer Patients Undergoing Chemotherapy: A Systematic Review. Cancer Nurs 2023; Publish Ahead of Print:00002820-990000000-00093. [PMID: 36728172 DOI: 10.1097/ncc.0000000000001196] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/03/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Chemotherapy is a primary adjuvant treatment strategy for breast cancer patients, accompanied by weight gain and negative changes in body composition. However, it is unknown whether exercise is effective in preventing said weight gain and mitigating body composition changes of breast cancer patients undergoing treatment. OBJECTIVES The current study used meta-analysis with trial sequential analysis to determine exercise effect on weight and body composition of breast cancer patients undergoing chemotherapy. METHODS Cochrane Library, PubMed, EMBASE, EBSCO, Scopus, and SinoMed were searched (from the database start date up to August 16, 2021) for randomized controlled studies evaluating the effect of exercise on weight or body composition among breast cancer patients during chemotherapy. RevMan software and TSA Software were used to assess the risk of bias and analyze study results. RESULTS In total, 13 studies comprising 1828 participants were included. Meta-analysis showed that exercise could lead to lower weight, body mass index (BMI), and percentage of body fat during chemotherapy for breast cancer patients, and muscular strength showed significant improvement. Trial sequential analysis showed that evidence of muscular strength was sufficient, but BMI evidence requires further confirmation. CONCLUSION This meta-analysis found significant differences in body weight, BMI, percentage of body fat, and muscular strength between exercise intervention groups and control groups. IMPLICATIONS FOR PRACTICE Exercise during chemotherapy is beneficial in preventing weight gain and negative changes in body composition. Medical practitioners should encourage patients to start exercising during chemotherapy. However, further studies are required because insufficient sample sizes meant that outcomes of body composition remain unconfirmed.
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Affiliation(s)
- Xinyu Li
- Author Affiliations: School of Nursing, Shanghai University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Shanghai, China (Ms Li, Mr Wang, and Drs Zhang, Wu, Geng, Zhou, and Dong); and Department of Breast Surgery, Ruijin Hospital, Shanghai Jiaotong University School of Medicine, Shanghai, China (Ms N Zhang)
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Chinese Herbal Medicine, Guilu Erxian Glue, as Alternative Medicine for Adverse Side Effects of Chemotherapy in Doxorubicin-Treated Cell and Mouse Models. EVIDENCE-BASED COMPLEMENTARY AND ALTERNATIVE MEDICINE 2021; 2021:5548968. [PMID: 33884024 PMCID: PMC8041540 DOI: 10.1155/2021/5548968] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/02/2021] [Revised: 03/25/2021] [Accepted: 03/29/2021] [Indexed: 02/08/2023]
Abstract
Doxorubicin (DOX), a chemotherapeutic drug, often causes many adverse side effects in patients with cancer, such as weight loss, motor disability, blood circulation defects, myelosuppression, myocardial injury, joint degeneration, and bone loss. The Chinese herbal medicine Guilu Erxian Glue (GEG) has been used in the prevention and treatment of osteoarthritis and osteoporosis for hundreds of years, with considerably fewer side effects. We expected that GEG could serve as a protective and beneficial alternative treatment for DOX-induced adverse side effects. In this study, we evaluated whether GEG can alleviate DOX-induced weight loss, motor disability, abnormal blood circulation, myelosuppression, myocardial injury, joint degeneration, and bone loss by using chemotherapy models of synoviocyte cell line HIG-82 and mice. Moreover, we examined the antioxidant capacity of GEG by using DPPH (1,1-diphenyl-2-picrylhydrazyl) free-radical scavenging. Our results revealed that GEG treatment can significantly enhance DPPH free-radical scavenging and reduce DOX-induced cytotoxicity in synoviocyte HIG-82 cells. In addition, GEG treatment for 2 weeks can significantly relieve weight loss, enhance exhaustive exercise capacity, improve blood circulation, alleviate myocardial oxidative stress and inflammation, and strengthen the tibias of DOX-treated mice. Thus, we suggest that GEG treatment can be a protective and alternative therapy for alleviating chemotherapy-related side effects such as weight loss, motor disability, blood circulation defects, and bone loss.
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Marques VA, Ferreira-Junior JB, Lemos TV, Moraes RF, Junior JRDS, Alves RR, Silva MS, de Freitas-Junior R, Vieira CA. Effects of Chemotherapy Treatment on Muscle Strength, Quality of Life, Fatigue, and Anxiety in Women with Breast Cancer. INTERNATIONAL JOURNAL OF ENVIRONMENTAL RESEARCH AND PUBLIC HEALTH 2020; 17:E7289. [PMID: 33036182 PMCID: PMC7579368 DOI: 10.3390/ijerph17197289] [Citation(s) in RCA: 15] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/22/2020] [Revised: 10/01/2020] [Accepted: 10/03/2020] [Indexed: 12/13/2022]
Abstract
The study aimed to evaluate the effects of chemotherapy treatment on muscle strength, quality of life, fatigue, and anxiety in women with breast cancer. Nineteen women who were undergoing a chemotherapy treatment (breast cancer treatment [BCT] group, 52.2 ± 13.1 years) and 18 women without cancer (control [CNT] group, 55.8 ± 8.4 years) answered questionnaires for evaluation of fatigue (Fatigue Scale), quality of life (Short-Form Healthy Survey [SF-36] questionnaire), and anxiety (State-Trait Anxiety Inventory [IDATE]) levels. Muscle strength was also assessed by an isometric grip test and an isokinetic knee extension test. Physical limitations, social and emotional domains of quality of life were lower in the BCT group in comparison to the CNT group (p = 0.002; p = 0.003; p = 0.0003, respectively). The other domains did not differ between groups (p > 0.05). There were no differences in fatigue and anxiety levels between both the BCT and CNT groups (p > 0.05). Additionally, isometric grip strength was higher in the CNT group when compared to the BCT group (p = 0.048). However, there were no differences between the BCT and CNT groups for peak torque and total work at both 60°.s-1 (p = 0.95 and p = 0.61, respectively) and 180°.s-1 (p = 0.94 and p = 0.72, respectively). These results suggest that three cycles of chemotherapy treatment may impair handgrip isometric strength and quality of life in women with breast cancer.
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Affiliation(s)
- Vitor A. Marques
- Postgraduate Program in Health Sciences, Federal University of Goias, Goiania 74605-050, GO, Brazil; (R.F.M.); (R.R.A.); (M.S.S.); (C.A.V.)
| | - João B. Ferreira-Junior
- Federal Institute of Sudeste of Minas Gerais- Campus Rio Pomba, Rio Pomba 36180-000, MG, Brazil;
| | - Thiago V. Lemos
- School of Physical Education and Physiotherapy, State University of Goias, Goiania 74643-010, GO, Brazil;
| | - Rafael F. Moraes
- Postgraduate Program in Health Sciences, Federal University of Goias, Goiania 74605-050, GO, Brazil; (R.F.M.); (R.R.A.); (M.S.S.); (C.A.V.)
- Teacher and Humanities Training School, Pontifical Catholic University of Goias, Goiania 74605-010, GO, Brazil
| | - José Roberto de S. Junior
- Postgraduation Program in Sciences and Technologies in Health, University of Brasília, Brasília 72220-275, DF, Brazil;
| | - Rafael R. Alves
- Postgraduate Program in Health Sciences, Federal University of Goias, Goiania 74605-050, GO, Brazil; (R.F.M.); (R.R.A.); (M.S.S.); (C.A.V.)
| | - Maria S. Silva
- Postgraduate Program in Health Sciences, Federal University of Goias, Goiania 74605-050, GO, Brazil; (R.F.M.); (R.R.A.); (M.S.S.); (C.A.V.)
| | - Ruffo de Freitas-Junior
- Advanced Center for Diagnosis of Breast Cancer (CORA/HC/UFG/EBSERH), Clinical Hospital, Federal University of Goias, Goiania 74605-050, GO, Brazil;
| | - Carlos A. Vieira
- Postgraduate Program in Health Sciences, Federal University of Goias, Goiania 74605-050, GO, Brazil; (R.F.M.); (R.R.A.); (M.S.S.); (C.A.V.)
- School of Physical Education and Dance, Federal University of Goias, Goiania 74690-900, GO, Brazil
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Relaxation versus exercise for improved quality of life in lymphoma survivors-a randomised controlled trial. J Cancer Surviv 2020; 15:470-480. [PMID: 32986231 PMCID: PMC7520510 DOI: 10.1007/s11764-020-00941-4] [Citation(s) in RCA: 13] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/11/2020] [Accepted: 09/17/2020] [Indexed: 02/06/2023]
Abstract
Purpose Lymphoma survivors experience persisting needs as a consequence of disease and treatment, which have an impact on quality of life (QoL). There is evidence supporting the use of relaxation and exercise to improve QoL, but there is no agreement on which is more beneficial. This study aims to compare a relaxation intervention versus an exercise intervention to determine which has a greater impact on QoL post-chemotherapy. Methods Eligible participants (n = 46) were randomised to a relaxation or exercise intervention for 12 weeks. QoL was assessed at baseline, 6 weeks and post-intervention using the European Organisation for Research and Treatment of Cancer QoL Questionnaire Core 30 (EORTC QLQ-C30) questionnaire, which is a valid and reliable tool. The summary score and all EORTC domains were assessed. Results There was a significant difference in QoL post-intervention between groups (p = 0.029) while adjusting for baseline QoL, with the exercise group demonstrating a larger improvement. Within-group QoL significantly improved pre- to post-intervention in both the relaxation (p = 0.036) and exercise (p = 0.004) groups. Conclusions A self-management intervention of either exercise or relaxation can help significantly improve QoL in lymphoma survivors following chemotherapy. While exercise is preferred, a relaxation intervention would also have a beneficial impact on QoL. Implications for Cancer Survivors Lymphoma survivors should be routinely screened and those with decreased QoL referred for an exercise programme, or relaxation for survivors who are unable to exercise or choose not to. A home-based programme can have a significant positive impact on QoL and is a feasible and effective method in the current climate. Trial registration number Clinical Trials ID NCT02272751
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Montaño-Rojas LS, Romero-Pérez EM, Medina-Pérez C, Reguera-García MM, de Paz JA. Resistance Training in Breast Cancer Survivors: A Systematic Review of Exercise Programs. INTERNATIONAL JOURNAL OF ENVIRONMENTAL RESEARCH AND PUBLIC HEALTH 2020; 17:E6511. [PMID: 32906761 PMCID: PMC7558202 DOI: 10.3390/ijerph17186511] [Citation(s) in RCA: 25] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/07/2020] [Revised: 08/29/2020] [Accepted: 09/02/2020] [Indexed: 11/16/2022]
Abstract
The aim of this study was to identify the characteristics of resistance training (RT) programs for breast cancer survivors (BCS). A systematic review of the literature was performed using PubMed, Medline, Science Direct, the Cochrane Breast Cancer Specialised Register of the Cochrane Library, the Physiotherapy Evidence Database (PEDro), and Scopus, with the aim of identifying all published studies on RT and BCS from 1 January 1990 to 6 December 2019, using the Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta-Analyses (PRISMA) guidelines. The risk of bias in the studies was assessed using the revised Cochrane Risk of Bias tool (RoB 2.0). Sixteen trials were included for qualitative analysis. More than half of the trials do not adequately report the characteristics that make up the exercise program. The maximal strength was the most frequently monitored manifestation of strength, evaluated mainly as one-repetition maximum (1RM). Resistance training was performed on strength-training machines, twice a week, using a load between 50% and 80% of 1RM. The trials reported significant improvement in muscle strength, fatigue, pain, quality of life, and minor changes in aerobic capacity.
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Xiao C, Beitler JJ, Higgins KA, Chico CE, Withycombe JS, Zhu Y, Zhao H, Lin IH, Li F, Jeon S, Irwin M, Bruner DW, Miller AH, Gary R. Pilot study of combined aerobic and resistance exercise on fatigue for patients with head and neck cancer: Inflammatory and epigenetic changes. Brain Behav Immun 2020; 88:184-192. [PMID: 32330594 PMCID: PMC7415514 DOI: 10.1016/j.bbi.2020.04.044] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/17/2019] [Revised: 04/17/2020] [Accepted: 04/17/2020] [Indexed: 12/29/2022] Open
Abstract
This pilot study examined whether a combined aerobic resistance exercise program reduced fatigue and the potential inflammatory and epigenetic mechanisms in patients with head and neck cancer (HNC) receiving intensity-modulated radiotherapy. The exercise group (N = 12) received a 3-month supervised aerobic resistance exercise intervention that was initiated before a 6-week radiotherapy regimen; the control group (N = 14) received standard care. Fatigue was measured using Multidimensional Fatigue Inventory-20; physical function measures included a 6-minute walk distance (6MWD), chair stands, bicep curls, and hand grip strength. Inflammatory markers and DNA methylation data were acquired using standardized protocol. Patients were mostly white (93%) and male (81%) with a mean age of 57 years. At the end of the intervention, the exercise group had a marginal decrease in fatigue compared with the control (-5.0 vs. 4.9; P = 0.10). The exercise group had a significantly greater improvement in 6MWD (29.8 vs. -55.5 m; P = 0.04), and a marginally smaller decline in hand grip (-0.3 vs. -5.8 lbs; P = 0.05) at the end of the intervention than the control. No significant difference in inflammatory markers was observed between groups. Lower plasma interleukin (IL) 6, IL1 receptor antagonist, tumor necrosis factor α (TNFα), soluble TNF receptor II and C-reactive protein were significantly associated with increased 6MWD, chair stand, and bicep curl at the end of the intervention (p < 0.05). Among the 1152 differentially methylated sites (DMS) after intervention (p < 0.001), 163 DMS were located in gene promoter regions. Enrichment analysis suggested that the top 10 upstream regulators were associated with tumor (HNF4A, RPP38, HOXA9, SAHM1, CDK7, NDN, RPS15) and inflammation (IRF7, CRKL, ONECUT1). The top 5 diseases or functions annotations of the 62 hypermethylated DMS indicated anti-tumor and anti-inflammatory effects that might be linked to exercise. These findings suggest that exercise may improve physical performance and reduce fatigue, which could be further linked to decreased inflammation, during active radiotherapy for HNC patients. Larger studies are warranted.
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Affiliation(s)
- Canhua Xiao
- School of Nursing, Yale University, 400 West Campus Drive, Orange 06477, United States.
| | - Jonathan J Beitler
- Department of Radiation, School of Medicine, Emory University, 1520 Clifton Road NE, Atlanta 30322, United States
| | - Kristin A Higgins
- Department of Radiation, School of Medicine, Emory University, 1520 Clifton Road NE, Atlanta 30322, United States
| | - Cynthia E Chico
- Department of Psychiatry and Behavioral Sciences, School of Medicine, Emory University, 1365-B Clifton Road, Atlanta, GA 30322, United States
| | - Janice S Withycombe
- School of Nursing, Clemson University, 508 Edward's, Clemson, SC 29634, United States
| | - Ying Zhu
- State Key Laboratory of Medical Neurobiology and MOE Frontier Center for Brain Science, Institutes of Brain Science, Fudan University, Shanghai 200433, China
| | - Hongyu Zhao
- Department of Epidemiology and Public Health, School of Medicine, Yale University, 300 George Street, New Haven, CT 06510, United States
| | - I-Hsin Lin
- Yale Center for Analytical Sciences, School of Public Health, Yale University, 300 George Street, New Haven, CT 06510, United States
| | - Fangyong Li
- School of Public Health, Yale University, 60 College St, New Haven, CT 06510, United States
| | - Sangchoon Jeon
- School of Nursing, Yale University, 400 West Campus Drive, Orange 06477, United States
| | - Melinda Irwin
- School of Public Health, Yale University, 60 College St, New Haven, CT 06510, United States
| | - Deborah W Bruner
- School of Nursing, Emory University, 1520 Clifton Road NE, Atlanta 30322, United States
| | - Andrew H Miller
- Department of Psychiatry and Behavioral Sciences, School of Medicine, Emory University, 1365-B Clifton Road, Atlanta, GA 30322, United States
| | - Rebecca Gary
- School of Nursing, Emory University, 1520 Clifton Road NE, Atlanta 30322, United States
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Hathiramani S, Pettengell R, Moir H, Younis A. Relaxation and exercise in lymphoma survivors (REIL study): a randomised clinical trial protocol. BMC Sports Sci Med Rehabil 2019; 11:17. [PMID: 31428434 PMCID: PMC6697965 DOI: 10.1186/s13102-019-0127-7] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/29/2018] [Accepted: 07/18/2019] [Indexed: 01/10/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Lymphoma survivors commonly report ongoing complaints including fatigue, pain, depression and decreased quality of life (QoL) following treatment. Although evidence suggests that both relaxation and exercise can significantly improve such symptoms, there is no consensus on which intervention is more effective. This paper presents the REIL (Relaxation and Exercise In Lymphoma) Study protocol. The REIL study aims to compare the effect of two home-based interventions - relaxation and exercise - on QoL in lymphoma survivors. METHODS Eligible participants (n = 36) will be randomised to a relaxation or exercise programme to perform at least three times per week. The primary outcome measure is QoL, assessed by the European Organisation for Research and Treatment of Cancer QoL Questionnaire Core 30 (EORTC QLQ-C30). Secondary outcome measures include body composition, cardiovascular status, pulmonary function, grip strength, functional exercise capacity (six minute walk test), well-being assessed by the FACT-Lym questionnaire, and psychological status assessed by the Hospital Anxiety and Depression Scale. Total duration of the study will be twelve weeks and outcome measures will be assessed at baseline, six weeks and at the end of the study. DISCUSSION It is anticipated that results from this preliminary study will begin to highlight effective pathways to improve QoL following chemotherapy for this population. This will better inform healthcare professionals to optimise QoL of lymphoma patients, and enable a smooth transition from being a cancer patient to survivor. TRIAL REGISTRATION The REIL study has been registered on a publicly accessible database, ClinicalTrials.gov, Registration Number: NCT02272751, October 2014.
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Affiliation(s)
- Suchita Hathiramani
- Kingston University and St. George’s University of London, London, UK
- Faculty of Health, Social Care & Education, Cranmer Terrace, London, SW17 0RE UK
| | | | - Hannah Moir
- Kingston University, Kingston Upon Thames, London, UK
| | - Ahmed Younis
- Kingston University and St. George’s University of London, London, UK
- Faculty of Health, Social Care & Education, Cranmer Terrace, London, SW17 0RE UK
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Pal A, Zimmer P, Schmidt ME, Hummel M, Ulrich CM, Wiskemann J, Steindorf K. No Evidence for Effect of Exercise on Transcriptome of NK Cells in Breast Cancer Patients Undergoing Adjuvant Therapy: Results From a Pilot Study. Front Physiol 2019; 10:959. [PMID: 31402874 PMCID: PMC6669353 DOI: 10.3389/fphys.2019.00959] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/02/2019] [Accepted: 07/10/2019] [Indexed: 11/30/2022] Open
Abstract
Background Mobilization and activation of natural killer cells (NK cells) have been hypothesized to contribute to observed protective effects of exercise on cancer development and progression. Some evidence exists for acute effects of aerobic exercise on NK cell mobilization and function, i.e., alteration of the gene expression profile of NK cells. Yet, the chronic effects of exercise training, and effects of other modalities than endurance exercise are still understudied. Here, we investigated the chronic effects of a 12-week resistance exercise program on NK cell gene expression in breast cancer patients undergoing adjuvant chemo- or radiotherapy. Methods Breast cancer patients were randomly assigned to either a 12-week resistance exercise program or a relaxation control group concomitant to adjuvant therapy. In a subsample of 19 participants, RNA was extracted from magnet bead isolated NK cells and subsequently analyzed for differential gene expression using microarray Illumina HumanHT-12 v4 before and after the intervention. Results After chronic exercise intervention several genes showed higher differential expression compared to the control group. However, after correction for multiple testing, baseline-adjusted analyses of covariance indicated no significant differences between the intervention and the control group with regard to the gene expression profile. Discussion Our findings suggest that 12-week resistance-exercise did not alter the gene expression profile of NK cells in breast cancer patients undergoing adjuvant therapy on the long term. Further studies with larger sample sizes and specifically designed to investigate whether exercise-induced changes in NK cell function are attributed to acute effects are warranted.
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Affiliation(s)
- Anasua Pal
- Division of Physical Activity, Prevention and Cancer, German Cancer Research Center (DKFZ), Heidelberg, Germany.,National Center for Tumor Diseases, Heidelberg, Germany
| | - Philipp Zimmer
- Division of Physical Activity, Prevention and Cancer, German Cancer Research Center (DKFZ), Heidelberg, Germany.,National Center for Tumor Diseases, Heidelberg, Germany.,Department of Molecular and Cellular Sport Medicine, Institute of Cardiovascular Research and Sports Medicine, German Sport University Cologne, Köln, Germany
| | - Martina E Schmidt
- Division of Physical Activity, Prevention and Cancer, German Cancer Research Center (DKFZ), Heidelberg, Germany.,National Center for Tumor Diseases, Heidelberg, Germany
| | - Manuela Hummel
- Division of Biostatistics, German Cancer Research Center (DKFZ), Heidelberg, Germany
| | - Cornelia M Ulrich
- Department of Population Health Sciences, Huntsman Cancer Institute, University of Utah, Salt Lake City, UT, United States
| | - Joachim Wiskemann
- Division of Medical Oncology, Heidelberg University Hospital and National Center for Tumor Diseases, Heidelberg, Germany
| | - Karen Steindorf
- Division of Physical Activity, Prevention and Cancer, German Cancer Research Center (DKFZ), Heidelberg, Germany.,National Center for Tumor Diseases, Heidelberg, Germany
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Exercise behavior and physical fitness in patients with advanced lung cancer. Support Care Cancer 2018; 26:2725-2736. [PMID: 29480444 DOI: 10.1007/s00520-018-4105-5] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/14/2017] [Accepted: 02/11/2018] [Indexed: 02/06/2023]
Abstract
PURPOSE The aim of this work was to evaluate exercise behavior and physical fitness of advanced lung cancer patients shortly after primary diagnosis. METHODS Between November 2013 and December 2016, advanced lung cancer patients (n = 227, mean age 62.2 years) were enrolled shortly after diagnosis and 211 patients were tested for endurance capacity (six-minute walk test) and strength performance (maximum voluntary isometric contraction of upper and lower extremities). Current and previous exercise and walking behavior were assessed using a self-reported questionnaire regarding type, frequency, intensity, and duration. Paired Student's t tests were used to compare physical fitness to reference data. The relation of potential determinants with physical fitness was assessed using linear regression analysis. RESULTS Exercise behavior was superior in the year before diagnosis compared to the time of study enrollment. Patients reduced frequency, intensity, and duration of sports/exercise after their lung cancer diagnosis. We observed significantly lower endurance capacity (p < .01) and strength performance in lower extremities (p < .01) in male and female patients compared to age and sex-matched reference data. We found significant correlations of previous exercise and walking behavior with physical fitness shortly after diagnosis in patients with advanced lung cancer. CONCLUSION Patients with advanced lung cancer showed impaired physical fitness regarding endurance and strength capacity. The strong decline in participation of sports/exercise shortly after diagnosis supports early implementation of physical exercise during anti-cancer treatment. TRIAL REGISTRATION ClinicalTrials.gov NCT02055508.
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Schmidt ME, Wiskemann J, Johnson T, Habermann N, Schneeweiss A, Steindorf K. L-Thyroxine intake as a potential risk factor for the development of fatigue in breast cancer patients undergoing chemotherapy. Support Care Cancer 2018; 26:2561-2569. [PMID: 29445858 DOI: 10.1007/s00520-018-4095-3] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/20/2017] [Accepted: 02/04/2018] [Indexed: 02/01/2023]
Abstract
PURPOSE L-Thyroxine is one of the most commonly prescribed drugs and accordingly used by many breast cancer patients with thyroid disorders. Hence, potential interactions of chemotherapy with L-thyroxine, possibly contributing to fatigue, would be of high clinical relevance. Therefore, we investigated fatigue and underlying pathways in L-thyroxine-using breast cancer patients during chemotherapy. METHODS Thyroid-stimulating hormone (TSH), L-triiodothyronine (T3), and diurnal salivary cortisol patterns were analyzed in breast cancer patients in the beginning and at the end of adjuvant chemotherapy within the control group (n = 41) of a randomized exercise intervention trial. Additionally, relationships in the exercising group (n = 45) as well as in healthy women (n = 25) were explored. Regression and mediation analyses were performed. RESULTS L-Thyroxine use was significantly associated with lower TSH (median = 0.33 mU/l, interquartile range = (0.15-0.48)), whereas patients not using L-thyroxine had TSH comparable to healthy women (0.51 mU/l (0.37-0.74)). T3 significantly declined during chemotherapy in L-thyroxine users but not in non-users. However, the group difference failed statistical significance. L-Thyroxine treatment was significantly associated with increased physical fatigue during chemotherapy (p = 0.004) in the non-exercising group. This association appeared to be partly mediated by TSH. Further, TSH appeared to affect fatigue partly via increased cortisol levels. In the exercise group, there was no significant association between L-thyroxine and fatigue. CONCLUSIONS L-Thyroxine treatment during chemotherapy might result in hormonal dysregulations that can contribute to increased physical fatigue. Therefore, breast cancer patients on L-thyroxine treatment may need special monitoring of their thyroid levels and of fatigue during chemotherapy and should be encouraged to exercise. TRIAL REGISTRATION ClinicalTrials.gov NCT01106820.
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Affiliation(s)
- Martina E Schmidt
- Division of Physical Activity, Prevention and Cancer, German Cancer Research Center (DKFZ) and National Center for Tumor Diseases (NCT), Im Neuenheimer Feld 460, 69120, Heidelberg, Germany.
| | - Joachim Wiskemann
- Division of Medical Oncology, University Clinic Heidelberg and National Center for Tumor Diseases (NCT), Im Neuenheimer Feld 460, 69120, Heidelberg, Germany
| | - Theron Johnson
- Division of Cancer Epidemiology, German Cancer Research Center (DKFZ), Im Neuenheimer Feld 581, 69120, Heidelberg, Germany
| | - Nina Habermann
- Genome Biology, European Molecular Biology Laboratory (EMBL), Meyerhofstraße 1, 69117, Heidelberg, Germany
| | - Andreas Schneeweiss
- Division of Medical Oncology, University Clinic Heidelberg and National Center for Tumor Diseases (NCT), Im Neuenheimer Feld 460, 69120, Heidelberg, Germany
| | - Karen Steindorf
- Division of Physical Activity, Prevention and Cancer, German Cancer Research Center (DKFZ) and National Center for Tumor Diseases (NCT), Im Neuenheimer Feld 460, 69120, Heidelberg, Germany
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van Vulpen JK, Schmidt ME, Velthuis MJ, Wiskemann J, Schneeweiss A, Vermeulen RCH, Habermann N, Ulrich CM, Peeters PHM, van der Wall E, May AM, Steindorf K. Effects of physical exercise on markers of inflammation in breast cancer patients during adjuvant chemotherapy. Breast Cancer Res Treat 2017; 168:421-431. [PMID: 29235043 DOI: 10.1007/s10549-017-4608-7] [Citation(s) in RCA: 22] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/04/2017] [Accepted: 12/06/2017] [Indexed: 10/18/2022]
Abstract
PURPOSE Exercise has been shown to reduce fatigue during cancer treatment. Hypothesized mechanisms include inflammatory pathways. Therefore, we investigated effects of exercise on markers of inflammation in breast cancer patients during adjuvant chemotherapy. METHODS We pooled data from two randomized controlled exercise intervention trials with breast cancer patients during adjuvant chemotherapy (n = 130), which had previously shown beneficial effects of exercise on fatigue. Exercise comprised a 12-week resistance training (BEATE study) or an 18-week combined resistance and aerobic training (PACT study). Serum IL-6, IL-1ra, and the IL-6/IL-1ra ratio were quantified at baseline, mid-intervention, post-intervention, and 6-9 months post-baseline. RESULTS Mixed effect models showed significant increases in IL-6 and IL-6/IL-1ra ratio during chemotherapy and decreases afterwards. Differences between exercise and control group were not significant at any time point. Changes in total cancer-related fatigue were significantly correlated with changes in IL-6/IL-1ra ratio (partial correlation r = 0.23) and IL-6 (r = 0.21), and changes in physical cancer-related fatigue with changes in IL-6/IL-1ra ratio (r = 0.21). CONCLUSIONS Changes in fatigue were slightly correlated with changes in inflammatory markers, and there was a strong inflammatory response to adjuvant chemotherapy. The supervised exercise training did not counteract this increase in inflammation, suggesting that beneficial effects of exercise on fatigue during adjuvant chemotherapy for breast cancer are not essentially mediated by IL-6, IL-1ra, or the IL-6/IL-1ra ratio.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jonna K van Vulpen
- Julius Center for Health Sciences and Primary Care, University Medical Center Utrecht, Utrecht, The Netherlands
| | - Martina E Schmidt
- Division of Physical Activity, Prevention and Cancer, German Cancer Research Center (DKFZ) and National Center for Tumor Diseases (NCT), Im Neuenheimer Feld 581, 69120, Heidelberg, Germany.
| | - Miranda J Velthuis
- Netherlands Comprehensive Cancer Organisation (IKNL), P.O. Box 19079, 3501 DB, Utrecht, The Netherlands
| | - Joachim Wiskemann
- Division of Medical Oncology, University Clinic Heidelberg and National Center for Tumor Diseases (NCT), Heidelberg, Germany
| | - Andreas Schneeweiss
- Division of Medical Oncology, University Clinic Heidelberg and National Center for Tumor Diseases (NCT), Heidelberg, Germany
| | - Roel C H Vermeulen
- Institute for Risk Assessment Sciences (IRAS), Utrecht University, Utrecht, The Netherlands
| | - Nina Habermann
- European Molecular Biology Laboratory, Genome Biology Unit, Heidelberg, Germany
| | - Cornelia M Ulrich
- Huntsman Cancer Institute and Department of Population Health Sciences, University of Utah, Salt Lake City, UT, USA
| | - Petra H M Peeters
- Julius Center for Health Sciences and Primary Care, University Medical Center Utrecht, Utrecht, The Netherlands.,School of Public Health, Imperial College London, South Kensington Campus, London, SW7 2AZ, UK
| | | | - Anne M May
- Julius Center for Health Sciences and Primary Care, University Medical Center Utrecht, Utrecht, The Netherlands
| | - Karen Steindorf
- Division of Physical Activity, Prevention and Cancer, German Cancer Research Center (DKFZ) and National Center for Tumor Diseases (NCT), Im Neuenheimer Feld 581, 69120, Heidelberg, Germany
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Schmidt ME, Wiskemann J, Schneeweiss A, Potthoff K, Ulrich CM, Steindorf K. Determinants of physical, affective, and cognitive fatigue during breast cancer therapy and 12 months follow-up. Int J Cancer 2017; 142:1148-1157. [PMID: 29082588 DOI: 10.1002/ijc.31138] [Citation(s) in RCA: 38] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/03/2017] [Revised: 10/02/2017] [Accepted: 10/05/2017] [Indexed: 01/22/2023]
Abstract
Fatigue is common in cancer survivors but often insufficiently treated. Due to its complexity a one-size-fits-all treatment seems not appropriate. To gain more information on influencing factors and sub-dimensions of fatigue we investigated potential determinants and correlates of physical, affective, and cognitive fatigue in breast cancer survivors during and after adjuvant therapy. Within the follow-up of two randomized controlled trials physical, affective, and cognitive fatigue were repeatedly assessed during and up to 12 months after cancer therapy with the 20-item Fatigue Assessment Questionnaire in 255 breast cancer survivors. Determinants of the different fatigue dimensions over time were explored with linear mixed models. Chemotherapy appeared as significant precipitating factor for physical fatigue. However, type of cancer therapy had no impact on fatigue one year post-treatment. Obesity was significantly associated with increased physical fatigue throughout all time points (Δ=15.5 at 12 months) whereas exercise appeared to be beneficial (Δ = -6.3). In contrast, affective fatigue was significantly associated with poor social support and worries about the future. In addition, poor sleep quality and previous use of psychopharmaceuticals were significantly associated with physical, affective, as well as cognitive fatigue. Further, hot flashes were associated with increased physical and cognitive fatigue. In conclusion, the broad diagnosis 'fatigue' in cancer survivors needs to be recognized as a diversity of symptoms determined by specific characteristics and likely different etiologies. Taking potential influencing factors such as obesity, physical inactivity, sleep problems, hot flashes, lack of social support, or psychological disorders into consideration might enable a better, individually-tailored fatigue treatment.
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Affiliation(s)
- Martina E Schmidt
- Division of Physical Activity, Prevention and Cancer, National Center for Tumor Diseases (NCT) and German Cancer Research Center (DKFZ); Im Neuenheimer Feld 581, Heidelberg, 69120, Germany
| | - Joachim Wiskemann
- Division of Medical Oncology, NCT, University Hospital Heidelberg, Germany
| | - Andreas Schneeweiss
- Division of Gynecologic Oncology, NCT, University Hospital Heidelberg, Germany
| | - Karin Potthoff
- Division of Medical Oncology, NCT, University Hospital Heidelberg, Germany.,Division of Radiation Oncology, NCT, University Hospital Heidelberg, Germany
| | - Cornelia M Ulrich
- Department of Population Health Sciences, Huntsman Cancer Institute and University of Utah, Salt Lake City, UT
| | - Karen Steindorf
- Division of Physical Activity, Prevention and Cancer, National Center for Tumor Diseases (NCT) and German Cancer Research Center (DKFZ); Im Neuenheimer Feld 581, Heidelberg, 69120, Germany
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14
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Klassen O, Schmidt ME, Ulrich CM, Schneeweiss A, Potthoff K, Steindorf K, Wiskemann J. Muscle strength in breast cancer patients receiving different treatment regimes. J Cachexia Sarcopenia Muscle 2017; 8:305-316. [PMID: 27896952 PMCID: PMC5377413 DOI: 10.1002/jcsm.12165] [Citation(s) in RCA: 114] [Impact Index Per Article: 16.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/13/2016] [Revised: 07/29/2016] [Accepted: 10/08/2016] [Indexed: 12/25/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Muscle dysfunction and sarcopenia have been associated with poor performance status, an increased mortality risk, and greater side effects in oncologic patients. However, little is known about how performance is affected by cancer therapy. We investigated muscle strength in breast cancer patients in different adjuvant treatment settings and also compared it with data from healthy individuals. METHODS Breast cancer patients (N = 255) from two randomized controlled exercise trials, staged 0-III and aged 54.4 ± 9.4 years, were categorized into four groups according to their treatment status. In a cross-sectional design, muscle function was assessed bilaterally by isokinetic dynamometry (0°, 60°, 180°/s) as maximal voluntary isometric contraction (MVIC) and maximal isokinetic peak torque (MIPT) in shoulder rotators and knee flexors and extensors. Additionally, muscular fatigue index (FI%) and shoulder flexibility were evaluated. Healthy women (N = 26), aged 53.3 ± 9.8 years, were tested using the same method. Analysis of covariance was used to estimate the impact of different cancer treatments on skeletal muscle function with adjustment for various clinical and socio-demographic factors. RESULTS Consistently, lower muscle strength was measured in shoulder and knee strength in patients after chemotherapy. On average, patients had up to 25% lower strength in lower extremities and 12-16% in upper extremities in MVIC and MIPT during cancer treatment compared with healthy women. No substantial difference between patient groups in shoulder strength, but significantly lower shoulder flexibility in patients with radical mastectomy was measured. Chemotherapy-treated patients had consistently higher FI%. No serious adverse events were reported. CONCLUSIONS Breast cancer patients showed markedly impaired muscle strength and joint dysfunctions before and after anticancer treatment. The significant differences between patients and healthy individuals underline the need of exercise therapy as early as possible in order to prevent or counteract the loss of muscle function after curative surgery as well as the consequences of neo-/adjuvant chemotherapy.
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Affiliation(s)
- Oliver Klassen
- Division of Sports Therapy, Hospital Münsterland, Bad Rothenfelde, Germany.,Division of Physical Activity, Prevention and Cancer, National Center for Tumor Diseases (NCT) and German Cancer Research Center (DKFZ), Heidelberg, Germany
| | - Martina E Schmidt
- Division of Physical Activity, Prevention and Cancer, National Center for Tumor Diseases (NCT) and German Cancer Research Center (DKFZ), Heidelberg, Germany
| | | | - Andreas Schneeweiss
- Division of Gynecological Oncology, National Center for Tumor Diseases (NCT) and University Hospital, Heidelberg, Germany
| | - Karin Potthoff
- Division of Medical Oncology, National Center for Tumor Diseases (NCT) and University Hospital, Heidelberg, Germany.,Division of Radiation Oncology, National Center for Tumor Diseases (NCT) and University Hospital, Heidelberg, Germany
| | - Karen Steindorf
- Division of Physical Activity, Prevention and Cancer, National Center for Tumor Diseases (NCT) and German Cancer Research Center (DKFZ), Heidelberg, Germany
| | - Joachim Wiskemann
- Division of Medical Oncology, National Center for Tumor Diseases (NCT) and University Hospital, Heidelberg, Germany
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Schmidt ME, Wiskemann J, Ulrich CM, Schneeweiss A, Steindorf K. Self-reported physical activity behavior of breast cancer survivors during and after adjuvant therapy: 12 months follow-up of two randomized exercise intervention trials. Acta Oncol 2017; 56:618-627. [PMID: 28084890 DOI: 10.1080/0284186x.2016.1275776] [Citation(s) in RCA: 62] [Impact Index Per Article: 8.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/12/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Exercise during and after breast cancer treatment has shown several health benefits. However, little is known about the courses, patterns, and determinants of physical activity of breast cancer patients, and the role of exercise interventions on their physical activity behavior in the long run. MATERIAL AND METHODS Self-reported physical activity was assessed in 227 breast cancer survivors before, during, and three, six, and 12 months post-intervention within two randomized resistance exercise trials performed during adjuvant chemo- or radiotherapy, respectively, with similar designs. Multiple ordinal logistic regression analyses were performed to identify determinants of physical activity at these time points. RESULTS While the intervention group exercised a median 1.8 h/week during adjuvant therapy (interquartile range 1.4-2.5), 68% of controls did not engage in any exercise. At 12-months follow-up 32% of patients did not engage in any exercise irrespective of the intervention. Of the patients who cycled for transportation pre-diagnosis about half stopped cycling in the long term in both groups. In contrast, walking was maintained over time. Major determinants of low levels of exercise at 12-months follow-up were low pre-diagnosis levels of exercise, lower education, being postmenopausal, and having breast problems or depressive symptoms. Further, the intervention appeared to influence the type of sports performed, with strength exercise being the most common type of exercise at follow-up in the exercise group, more frequently compared to the control group. CONCLUSION The exercise intervention effectively countervailed the decrease in physical activity during cancer therapy and boosted strength exercise in the months following the intervention, but in the longer term many survivors were insufficiently active. Breast cancer survivors may need continued motivation and practical support tailored to their individual characteristics and physical activity history to incorporate exercise in everyday routine in the long term.
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Affiliation(s)
- Martina E. Schmidt
- Division of Physical Activity, Prevention and Cancer, National Center for Tumor Diseases (NCT) and German Cancer Research Center (DKFZ), Heidelberg, Germany
| | - Joachim Wiskemann
- Division of Medical Oncology, National Center for Tumor Diseases (NCT) and Heidelberg University Hospital, Heidelberg, Germany
| | - Cornelia M. Ulrich
- Department of Population Health Sciences, Huntsman Cancer Institute and University of Utah, Salt Lake City, UT, USA
| | - Andreas Schneeweiss
- Division Gynecologic Oncology, National Center for Tumor Diseases (NCT) and University Hospital, Heidelberg, Germany
| | - Karen Steindorf
- Division of Physical Activity, Prevention and Cancer, National Center for Tumor Diseases (NCT) and German Cancer Research Center (DKFZ), Heidelberg, Germany
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Repka CP, Hayward R. Oxidative Stress and Fitness Changes in Cancer Patients after Exercise Training. Med Sci Sports Exerc 2016; 48:607-14. [PMID: 26587845 DOI: 10.1249/mss.0000000000000821] [Citation(s) in RCA: 27] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/25/2023]
Abstract
INTRODUCTION The purpose of this study was to determine the effect of an exercise intervention (EX) on muscular strength, cardiorespiratory fitness (CRF), and oxidative stress in cancer survivors compared with a nonexercising cancer control group (CON). METHODS Fifteen cancer patients and seven age-matched individuals with no history of cancer (NC) participated in this study. A blood draw and assessments of muscular strength and CRF were administered to cancer survivors within 6 wk of completing radiation or chemotherapy, and again 10 wk later. Eight cancer patients completed a 10-wk supervised exercise intervention, whereas seven continued standard care. Baseline oxidative stress was compared between cancer patients and the NC group. Changes in plasma protein carbonyls, 8-OHdG, and Trolox equivalent antioxidant capacity were compared between groups using repeated-measures ANOVA, and correlations between fitness and oxidative stress changes were evaluated. RESULTS Baseline antioxidant capacity was significantly lower, and plasma protein carbonyls were significantly higher in cancer patients compared with NC (P = 0.001). EX had a significant increase in antioxidant capacity (P < 0.001) and decrease in protein carbonyls (P = 0.023), whereas CON did not. Improvements in composite arm (41%, P = 0.002) and leg strength (34%, P = 0.008), isometric handgrip strength (11%, P = 0.015), and V˙O2peak (16%, P = 0.018) were significant in EX but not in CON. 8-OHdG changes were significantly correlated with changes in V˙O2peak (r = -0.89, P < 0.001), arm strength (r = -0.67, P = 0.004), and leg strength (r = -0.56, P = 0.019). CONCLUSION A whole-body exercise intervention for cancer survivors may be an effective method of concurrently increasing muscular strength, CRF, and antioxidant capacity while decreasing markers of oxidative stress.
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Affiliation(s)
- Chris P Repka
- 1Department of Health Sciences, Northern Arizona University, Flagstaff, AZ; 2School of Sport and Exercise Science and the Rocky Mountain Cancer Rehabilitation Institute, University of Northern Colorado, Greeley, CO
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Abstract
BACKGROUND A huge clinical research database on adjuvant cancer treatment has verified improvements in breast cancer outcomes such as recurrence and mortality rates. On the other hand, adjuvant and neoadjuvant therapy with chemotherapy and radiotherapy impacts on quality of life due to substantial short- and long-term side effects. A number of studies have evaluated the effect of exercise interventions on those side effects. This is an updated version of the original Cochrane review published in 2006. The original review identified some benefits of physical activity on physical fitness and the resulting capacity for performing activities of daily life. It also identified a lack of evidence for other outcomes, providing clear justification for an updated review. OBJECTIVES To assess the effect of aerobic or resistance exercise interventions during adjuvant treatment for breast cancer on treatment-related side effects such as physical deterioration, fatigue, diminished quality of life, depression, and cognitive dysfunction. SEARCH METHODS We carried out an updated search in the Cochrane Breast Cancer Group Specialised Register (30 March 2015), the Cochrane Central Register of Controlled Trials (CENTRAL) (Issue 2, 2015), MEDLINE (1966 to 30 March 2015), and EMBASE (1966 to 30 March 2015). We did not update the original searches in CINAHL (1982 to 2004), SPORTDiscus (1975 to 2004), PsycINFO (1872 to 2003), SIGLE (1880 to 2004), and ProQuest Digital Dissertations (1861 to 2004). We searched the World Health Organization International Clinical Trials Registry Platform (WHO ICTRP) and ClinicalTrials.gov for ongoing trials on 30 March 2015. We screened references in relevant reviews and published clinical trials. SELECTION CRITERIA We included randomised controlled trials that examined aerobic or resistance exercise or both in women undergoing adjuvant treatment for breast cancer. Published and unpublished trials were eligible. DATA COLLECTION AND ANALYSIS Two review authors independently performed data extraction, assessed trials, and graded the methodological quality using Cochrane's 'Risk of bias' tool. Any disagreements were resolved through discussion or by consulting the third review author. We entered data into Review Manager for analysis. For outcomes assessed with a variety of instruments, we used the standardised mean difference (SMD) as a summary statistic for meta-analysis; for those assessed with the same instrument, we used the mean difference (MD). MAIN RESULTS For this 2015 update we included a total of 32 studies with 2626 randomised women, 8 studies from the original search and 24 studies from the updated search. We found evidence that physical exercise during adjuvant treatment for breast cancer probably improves physical fitness (SMD 0.42, 95% confidence interval (CI) 0.25 to 0.59; 15 studies; 1310 women; moderate-quality evidence) and slightly reduces fatigue (SMD -0.28, 95% CI -0.41 to -0.16; 19 studies; 1698 women; moderate-quality evidence). Exercise may lead to little or no improvement in health-related quality of life (MD 1.10, 95% CI -5.28 to 7.48; 1 study; 68 women; low-quality evidence), a slight improvement in cancer site-specific quality of life (MD 4.24, 95% CI -1.81 to 10.29; 4 studies; 262 women; low-quality evidence), and an improvement in cognitive function (MD -11.55, 95% CI -22.06 to -1.05; 2 studies; 213 women; low-quality evidence). Exercise probably leads to little or no difference in cancer-specific quality of life (SMD 0.12, 95% CI 0.00 to 0.25; 12 studies; 1012 women; moderate-quality evidence) and little or no difference in depression (SMD -0.15, 95% CI -0.30 to 0.01; 5 studies; 674 women; moderate-quality evidence). Evidence for other outcomes ranged from low to moderate quality. Seven trials reported a very small number of adverse events. AUTHORS' CONCLUSIONS Exercise during adjuvant treatment for breast cancer can be regarded as a supportive self care intervention that probably results in less fatigue, improved physical fitness, and little or no difference in cancer-specific quality of life and depression. Exercise may also slightly improve cancer site-specific quality of life and cognitive function, while it may result in little or no difference in health-related quality of life. This review is based on trials with a considerable degree of clinical heterogeneity regarding adjuvant cancer treatments and exercise interventions. Due to the difficulty of blinding exercise trials, all included trials were at high risk for performance bias. Furthermore, the majority of trials were at high risk for detection bias, largely due to most outcomes being self reported.The findings of the updated review have enabled us to make a more precise conclusion that both aerobic and resistance exercise can be regarded as beneficial for individuals with adjuvant therapy-related side effects. Further research is required to determine the optimal type, intensity, and timing of an exercise intervention. Furthermore, long-term evaluation is required due to possible long-term side effects of adjuvant treatment.
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Affiliation(s)
- Anna C Furmaniak
- Technische Universität MünchenDepartment of Psychosomatic Medicine and Psychotherapy, Klinikum Rechts der IsarMunichGermany
- University of BonnDepartment of Psychosomatic Medicine and PsychotherapyBonnGermany
| | - Matthias Menig
- Health and Accident Insurance DirectorateFederal Office of Public Health FOPHBernSwitzerland
| | - Martina H Markes
- Institute for Quality and Efficiency in Health Care (IQWiG)Department Non‐Drug InterventionsIm Mediapark 8KölnGermany50670
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Cancer-related fatigue shows a stable association with diurnal cortisol dysregulation in breast cancer patients. Brain Behav Immun 2016; 52:98-105. [PMID: 26456694 DOI: 10.1016/j.bbi.2015.10.005] [Citation(s) in RCA: 58] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/30/2015] [Revised: 08/04/2015] [Accepted: 10/03/2015] [Indexed: 01/02/2023] Open
Abstract
Fatigue is a major burden for breast cancer patients undergoing adjuvant therapy. Yet, its pathophysiology is still not well understood. Hypothesized mechanisms include dysregulations in the hypothalamic-pituitary-adrenal (HPA) axis, which may be reflected in alterations in the diurnal cortisol patterns. However, studies on the association between cortisol and fatigue during adjuvant cancer therapy are rare. We therefore assessed salivary cortisol at awakening, 0.5h post-awakening, noon, 5 pm and 10 pm/bedtime in 265 breast cancer patients undergoing adjuvant therapy at three timepoints. Cancer-related fatigue was assessed with the Fatigue Assessment Questionnaire (FAQ) covering the physical, affective, and cognitive fatigue dimensions. Multiple linear regression analyses were performed cross-sectionally at the three timepoints as well as longitudinally considering changes in cortisol and fatigue over time. The results showed that the physical dimension of cancer-related fatigue was significantly associated with increased evening cortisol levels and higher overall cortisol secretion. These associations were independent of depressive symptoms. Morning cortisol levels, the cortisol awakening response and the diurnal slope were not consistently associated with physical fatigue. Affective and cognitive fatigue showed no clear association with any of the cortisol parameters. In conclusion, the physical but not the affective or cognitive dimension of fatigue seems associated with cortisol dysregulations in breast cancer patients undergoing adjuvant therapy, characterized by an unaffected cortisol level in the morning but blunted decline to the evening level. Research focusing on disturbances of the cortisol rhythm and HPA dysregulations during and after cancer treatment may open new strategies to reduce cancer-related fatigue.
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Mitchell SA, Hoffman AJ, Clark JC, DeGennaro RM, Poirier P, Robinson CB, Weisbrod BL. Putting evidence into practice: an update of evidence-based interventions for cancer-related fatigue during and following treatment. Clin J Oncol Nurs 2015; 18 Suppl:38-58. [PMID: 25427608 DOI: 10.1188/14.cjon.s3.38-58] [Citation(s) in RCA: 87] [Impact Index Per Article: 9.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/17/2022]
Abstract
Cancer-related fatigue (CRF) has deleterious effects on physical, social, cognitive, and vocational functioning, and causes emotional and spiritual distress for patients and their families; however, it remains under-recognized and undertreated. This article critically reviews and integrates the available empirical evidence supporting the efficacy of pharmacologic and nonpharmacologic treatment approaches to CRF, highlighting new evidence since 2007 and 2009 Putting Evidence Into Practice publications. Interventions that are recommended for practice or likely to be effective in improving fatigue outcomes include exercise; screening for treatable risk factors; management of concurrent symptoms; yoga; structured rehabilitation; Wisconsin ginseng; cognitive-behavioral therapies for insomnia, pain, and depression; mindfulness-based stress reduction; and psychoeducational interventions such as anticipatory guidance, psychosocial support, and energy conservation and activity management. This information can be applied to improve the management of CRF, inform health policy and program development, shape the design of clinical trials of new therapies for CRF, and drive basic and translational research.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sandra A Mitchell
- Division of Cancer Control and Population Sciences, National Cancer Center, Bethesda, MD
| | - Amy J Hoffman
- College of Nursing, Michigan State University, East Lansing
| | - Jane C Clark
- Georgia Center for Oncology Research and Education in Atlanta
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Berger AM, Mitchell SA, Jacobsen PB, Pirl WF. Screening, evaluation, and management of cancer-related fatigue: Ready for implementation to practice? CA Cancer J Clin 2015; 65:190-211. [PMID: 25760293 DOI: 10.3322/caac.21268] [Citation(s) in RCA: 113] [Impact Index Per Article: 12.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/23/2014] [Revised: 02/05/2015] [Accepted: 02/06/2015] [Indexed: 12/13/2022] Open
Abstract
Answer questions and earn CME/CNE Evidence regarding cancer-related fatigue (fatigue) has accumulated sufficiently such that recommendations for screening, evaluation, and/or management have been released recently by 4 leading cancer organizations. These evidence-based fatigue recommendations are available for clinicians, and some have patient versions; but barriers at the patient, clinician, and system levels hinder dissemination and implementation into practice. The underlying biologic mechanisms for this debilitating symptom have not been elucidated completely, hindering the development of mechanistically driven interventions. However, significant progress has been made toward methods for screening and comprehensively evaluating fatigue and other common symptoms using reliable and valid self-report measures. Limited data exist to support the use of any pharmacologic agent; however, several nonpharmacologic interventions have been shown to be effective in reducing fatigue in adults. Never before have evidence-based recommendations for fatigue management been disseminated by 4 premier cancer organizations (the National Comprehensive Cancer, the Oncology Nursing Society, the Canadian Partnership Against Cancer/Canadian Association of Psychosocial Oncology, and the American Society of Clinical Oncology). Clinicians may ask: Are we ready for implementation into practice? The reply: A variety of approaches to screening, evaluation, and management are ready for implementation. To reduce fatigue severity and distress and its impact on functioning, intensified collaborations and close partnerships between clinicians and researchers are needed, with an emphasis on system-wide efforts to disseminate and implement these evidence-based recommendations.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ann M Berger
- University of Nebraska Medical Center College of Nursing, Fred and Pamela Buffett Cancer Center, Omaha, NE
| | - Sandra A Mitchell
- Outcomes Research Branch, Applied Research Program, Division of Cancer Control and Population Sciences, National Cancer Institute, Bethesda, MD
| | - Paul B Jacobsen
- Division of Population Science, Moffitt Cancer Center and Research Institute, Tampa, FL
| | - William F Pirl
- Center for Psychiatric Oncology and Behavioral Sciences, Massachusetts General Hospital Cancer Center and Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA
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Scharhag-Rosenberger F, Kuehl R, Klassen O, Schommer K, Schmidt ME, Ulrich CM, Wiskemann J, Steindorf K. Exercise training intensity prescription in breast cancer survivors: validity of current practice and specific recommendations. J Cancer Surviv 2015; 9:612-9. [DOI: 10.1007/s11764-015-0437-z] [Citation(s) in RCA: 33] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/26/2014] [Accepted: 02/06/2015] [Indexed: 11/29/2022]
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Klafke N, Mahler C, von Hagens C, Rochon J, Schneeweiss A, Müller A, Salize HJ, Joos S. A complex nursing intervention of complementary and alternative medicine (CAM) to increase quality of life in patients with breast and gynecologic cancer undergoing chemotherapy: study protocol for a partially randomized patient preference trial. Trials 2015; 16:51. [PMID: 25887713 PMCID: PMC4337273 DOI: 10.1186/s13063-014-0538-4] [Citation(s) in RCA: 19] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/14/2014] [Accepted: 12/19/2014] [Indexed: 01/09/2023] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Health-related quality of life (HRQoL) is most adversely affected in cancer patients between diagnosis and the end of chemotherapy. The aim of the Complementary Nursing in Gynecologic Oncology (CONGO) study is to assess the effectiveness of a complex nursing care intervention of CAM to increase HRQoL in cancer patients undergoing chemotherapy. METHODS/DESIGN CONGO is a prospective partially randomized patient preference (PRPP) trial including adult women diagnosed with breast and gynecologic cancer starting a new chemotherapy regimen. Patients without strong preferences for CAM will be randomized to usual nursing care or complex nursing care; those patients with strong preferences will be allowed their choice. The intervention consists of three interacting and intertwined elements: CAM nursing intervention packet, counseling on CAM using a resource-oriented approach and evidence-based informational material on CAM. Primary outcome data on participants' HRQoL will be collected from baseline until the end of treatment and long-term follow-up using the EORTC-QLQ-C30. Secondary outcomes include nausea, fatigue, pain, anxiety/depression, social support, self-efficacy, patient competence, spiritual wellbeing, and satisfaction with care. Accompanying research on economic outcomes as well as a mixed-methods process evaluation will be conducted. A total of 590 patients (236 patients in the randomized part of the study and 354 patients in the observational part of the study) will be recruited in the two outpatient clinics. The first analysis step will be the intention-to-treat (ITT) analysis of the randomized part of the trial. A linear mixed model will be used to compare the continuous primary endpoint between the intervention and control arm of the randomized group. The observational part of the trial will be analyzed descriptively. External validity will be assessed by comparing randomized with nonrandomized patients. DISCUSSION Cancer patients are increasingly using CAM as supportive cancer care, however, a patient-centered model of care that includes CAM for the patient during chemotherapy still needs to be evaluated. This protocol has been designed to test if the effects of the intervention go beyond potential benefits in quality-of-life outcomes. TRIAL REGISTRATION German Clinical Trials Register (DRKS), DRKS00006056 (15 April 2014).
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Affiliation(s)
- Nadja Klafke
- Department of General Practice and Health Services Research, University Hospital Heidelberg, Voßstr. 2, D-69115, Heidelberg, Germany.
| | - Cornelia Mahler
- Department of General Practice and Health Services Research, University Hospital Heidelberg, Voßstr. 2, D-69115, Heidelberg, Germany.
| | - Cornelia von Hagens
- Department of Gynaecological Endocrinology and Reproductive Medicine, University Women's Hospital Heidelberg, Im Neuenheimer Feld 440, D-69120, Heidelberg, Germany.
| | - Justine Rochon
- Institute of Medical Biometry and Informatics, University of Heidelberg, Im Neuenheimer Feld 305, D-69120, Heidelberg, Germany.
| | - Andreas Schneeweiss
- National Center for Tumor Diseases, University Hospital, Im Neuenheimer Feld 460, D-69120, Heidelberg, Germany.
| | - Andreas Müller
- Community Hospital Karlsruhe, Moltkestraße 90, D-76133, Karlsruhe, Germany.
| | - Hans-Joachim Salize
- Central Institute of Mental Health, Mental Health Services Research Group, Medical Faculty Mannheim/Heidelberg University, Mannheim, D-68159, Germany.
| | - Stefanie Joos
- Department of General Practice and Health Services Research, University Hospital Heidelberg, Voßstr. 2, D-69115, Heidelberg, Germany. .,Institute of General Practice, University Hospital Tuebingen, Oesterbergstr. 9, D-72074, Tuebingen, Germany.
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Schmidt ME, Wiskemann J, Armbrust P, Schneeweiss A, Ulrich CM, Steindorf K. Effects of resistance exercise on fatigue and quality of life in breast cancer patients undergoing adjuvant chemotherapy: A randomized controlled trial. Int J Cancer 2014; 137:471-80. [DOI: 10.1002/ijc.29383] [Citation(s) in RCA: 150] [Impact Index Per Article: 15.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/22/2014] [Accepted: 11/24/2014] [Indexed: 12/27/2022]
Affiliation(s)
- Martina E. Schmidt
- Division of Preventive Oncology; National Center for Tumor Diseases (NCT) and German Cancer Research Center (DKFZ); Heidelberg Germany
| | - Joachim Wiskemann
- Division of Medical Oncology; National Center for Tumor Diseases (NCT) and University Hospital Heidelberg; Heidelberg Germany
| | - Petra Armbrust
- Division of Medical Oncology; National Center for Tumor Diseases (NCT) and University Hospital Heidelberg; Heidelberg Germany
| | - Andreas Schneeweiss
- Division of Medical Oncology; National Center for Tumor Diseases (NCT) and University Hospital Heidelberg; Heidelberg Germany
| | - Cornelia M. Ulrich
- Division of Preventive Oncology; National Center for Tumor Diseases (NCT) and German Cancer Research Center (DKFZ); Heidelberg Germany
| | - Karen Steindorf
- Division of Preventive Oncology; National Center for Tumor Diseases (NCT) and German Cancer Research Center (DKFZ); Heidelberg Germany
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Klassen O, Schmidt ME, Scharhag-Rosenberger F, Sorkin M, Ulrich CM, Schneeweiss A, Potthoff K, Steindorf K, Wiskemann J. Cardiorespiratory fitness in breast cancer patients undergoing adjuvant therapy. Acta Oncol 2014; 53:1356-65. [PMID: 24837860 DOI: 10.3109/0284186x.2014.899435] [Citation(s) in RCA: 45] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/02/2023]
Abstract
PURPOSE The aim of this work was to investigate cardiorespiratory fitness in breast cancer patients at different time points of anti-cancer treatment. PATIENTS AND METHODS Non-metastatic breast cancer patients (n = 222, mean age 55 years) were categorized into four subgroups according to their treatment status. Cardiopulmonary exercise testing (CPET) was used to measure patients' cardiorespiratory fitness, including oxygen delivery and metabolic muscle function. Testing was performed by bicycle ergometry, and maximal oxygen uptake (VO2peak) was measured. Heart rate during exercise at 50 watts (HR50) was assessed as a cardiocirculatory parameter and ventilatory threshold (VT) was used as an indicator of the O2 supply to muscle. Analysis of covariance was used to estimate the impact of different cancer treatments on cardiorespiratory fitness with adjustment for clinical factors. RESULTS Submaximal measures were successfully assessed in 220 (99%) and 200 (90%) patients for HR50 and VT, while criteria for maximal exercise testing were met by 176 patients (79%), respectively. The mean VO2peak was 20.6 ± 6.7 ml/kg/min, mean VT 10.7 ± 2.9 ml/min/kg and mean HR50 112 ± 16 beats/min. Chemotherapy was significantly associated with decreased VO2peak, with significantly lower adjusted mean VO2peak among patients post adjuvant chemotherapy compared to patients with no chemotherapy or those who just started chemotherapy regime (all p < 0.01). Patients post adjuvant chemotherapy reached only 63% of the VO2peak level expected for their age- and BMI-category (mean VO2peak 15.5 ± 4.8 ml/kg/min). Similarly, HR50 was significantly associated with treatment. However, VT was not associated with treatment. CONCLUSION Breast cancer patients have marked and significantly impaired cardiopulmonary function during and after chemotherapy. Hereby, chemotherapy appears to impair cardiorespiratory fitness by influencing the oxygen delivery system rather than impacting metabolic muscle function. Our findings underline the need of exercise training in breast cancer patients to counteract the loss of cardiorespiratory fitness during the anti-cancer treatment.
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Affiliation(s)
- Oliver Klassen
- Preventive Oncology, National Center for Tumor Diseases (NCT) Heidelberg and German Cancer Research Center (DKFZ) , Heidelberg , Germany
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Allen SVS, Hurley RM, Patel AV, Cheville AL, Pruthi S. The beneficial effect of enhanced physical activity on the welfare of breast cancer survivors. BREAST CANCER MANAGEMENT 2014. [DOI: 10.2217/bmt.14.19] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/21/2022] Open
Abstract
SUMMARY Healthcare providers caring for breast cancer survivors can positively impact patients' quality of life by counseling them about lifestyle modifications such as physical activity and exercise. Based on a literature review of current available evidence, this article serves as a guide to primary care providers regarding the beneficial role of lifestyle modification and physical activity. Specific survivorship issues and beneficial impacts of physical activity that will be discussed in this article include the management of arthralgias, cancer related fatigue, lymphedema, pain, mental health conditions, weight management and reducing breast cancer recurrence. The timing and intensity of physical activity needs to be individualized based on patient symptoms, comorbidities and personal preferences. The goals of physical activity options for breast cancer survivors are to aid in the management of treatment-related side effects, improve fitness and maintain a healthy lifestyle.
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Affiliation(s)
- Summer VS Allen
- Department of Family Medicine, Mayo Clinic, 200 First Street SW, Rochester, MN 55905, USA
| | - Rachel M Hurley
- Department of Molecular Pharmacology & Experimental Therapeutics, Mayo Clinic, 200 First Street SW, Rochester, MN 55905, USA
| | - Alpa V Patel
- American Cancer Society, Inc., 250 Williams Street, Atlanta, GA 30303, USA
| | - Andrea L Cheville
- Department of Physical Medicine & Rehabilitation, Mayo Clinic, 200 First Street SW, Rochester, MN 55905, USA
| | - Sandhya Pruthi
- Division of General Internal Medicine, Mayo Clinic, 200 First Street SW, Rochester, MN 55905, USA
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Physical Activity After Breast Cancer: Effect on Survival and Patient-Reported Outcomes. CURRENT BREAST CANCER REPORTS 2014. [DOI: 10.1007/s12609-014-0147-y] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/29/2023]
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Randomized controlled trial to evaluate the effects of progressive resistance training compared to progressive muscle relaxation in breast cancer patients undergoing adjuvant radiotherapy: the BEST study. BMC Cancer 2013; 13:162. [PMID: 23537231 PMCID: PMC3617011 DOI: 10.1186/1471-2407-13-162] [Citation(s) in RCA: 39] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/30/2012] [Accepted: 03/20/2013] [Indexed: 01/01/2023] Open
Abstract
Background Cancer-related fatigue (CRF) is one of the most common and distressing side effects of cancer and its treatment. During and after radiotherapy breast cancer patients often suffer from CRF which frequently impairs quality of life (QoL). Despite the high prevalence of CRF in breast cancer patients and the severe impact on the physical and emotional well-being, effective treatment methods are scarce. Physical activity for breast cancer patients has been reported to decrease fatigue, to improve emotional well-being and to increase physical strength. The pathophysiological and molecular mechanisms of CRF and the molecular-biologic changes induced by exercise, however, are poorly understood. In the BEST trial we aim to assess the effects of resistance training on fatigue, QoL and physical fitness as well as on molecular, immunological and inflammatory changes in breast cancer patients during adjuvant radiotherapy. Methods/design The BEST study is a prospective randomized, controlled intervention trial investigating the effects of a 12-week supervised progressive resistance training compared to a 12-week supervised muscle relaxation training in 160 patients with breast cancer undergoing adjuvant radiotherapy. To determine the effect of exercise itself beyond potential psychosocial group effects, patients in the control group perform a group-based progressive muscle relaxation training. Main inclusion criterion is histologically confirmed breast cancer stage I-III after lumpectomy or mastectomy with indication for adjuvant radiotherapy. Main exclusion criteria are acute infectious diseases, severe neurological, musculosceletal or cardiorespiratory disorders. The primary endpoint is cancer-related fatigue; secondary endpoints include immunological and inflammatory parameters analyzed in peripheral blood, saliva and urine. In addition, QoL, depression, physical performance and cognitive capacity will be assessed. Discussion The BEST study is the first randomized controlled trial comparing progressive resistance training with muscle relaxation training in breast cancer patients during adjuvant radiotherapy. Based on the analysis of physiological, immunological and inflammatory parameters it will contribute to a better understanding of the physiological and psychosocial effects and the biological mechanisms of resistance training. The ultimate goal is the implementation of optimized intervention programs to reduce fatigue, improve quality of life and potentially the prognosis after breast cancer. Trial registration ClinicalTrials.gov NCT01468766
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