Effects of an Evidence-based Exercise Intervention on Clinical Outcomes in Breast Cancer Survivors: A Randomized Controlled Trial

OBJECTIVES The number of breast cancer survivors throughout the world has increased. Breast cancer survivors need to know how to exercise to improve their clinical outcomes. The purpose of this study was to find the effects of an evidence-based combined exercise intervention on the fitness levels of breast cancer survivors.METHODS A total of 38 female breast cancer survivors were randomly assigned to an exercise group (n=19) or a control group who did usual care (n=19). Subjects in the exercise group participated eight weeks of moderate intensity aerobic exercise and bodyweight strength exercise three times per week. Weight, body mass index (BMI), cardiorespiratory fitness, handgrip strength, and flexibility were measured to assess the effects of the exercise intervention.RESULTS Women who completed the exercise intervention had decreased weight and BMI and increased cardiorespiratory fitness, handgrip strength, and flexibility.CONCLUSIONS Breast cancer survivors had improved health outcomes. A combined exercise intervention of moderate intensity three times per week for eight weeks can help breast cancer survivors improve their health. Participating in aerobic exercise and bodyweight strength exercise, which provide dynamic movements and use large muscle groups with no equipment, can help increase physical fitness levels of breast cancer survivors.