It’s a simple workout.
A recent clinical trial conducted in Canada suggests that women undergoing chemotherapy for breast cancer can mitigate some of the cognitive challenges associated with treatment, often referred to as “brain fog,” through regular aerobic exercise. The study revealed that participants who engaged in aerobic classes reported feeling more mentally alert and experienced an improved quality of life.
Lead researcher Jennifer Brunet, a professor of human kinetics at the University of Ottawa, emphasized the importance of incorporating exercise into cancer care. She noted, “Our findings reinforce the need for exercise evaluation, recommendations, and referrals as a standard aspect of cancer treatment. This approach could empower women both during and after their cancer journey to take charge of their physical and mental well-being.”
The research involved 57 breast cancer patients from Ottawa and Vancouver, who were randomly assigned to participate in either 12 weeks or 24 weeks of aerobic exercise alongside their chemotherapy treatment. About half of the participants began their exercise regimen concurrently with their chemotherapy, while the other half started their workouts after completing their treatment.
While objective assessments of cognitive function did not reveal significant differences between the two groups, women who engaged in aerobics during their chemotherapy reported feeling clearer and more focused, alongside experiencing an enhanced overall quality of life.
Brunet highlighted the need for greater access to exercise options for women undergoing chemotherapy for breast cancer. She advocated for collaboration among various sectors, including academia, healthcare, fitness, and community organizations, to create exercise programs tailored specifically for this demographic. Such initiatives should be straightforward to implement, making the benefits of physical activity more accessible to all women facing the difficulties of cancer treatment and recovery. The findings of this study were recently published in the journal Cancer.
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