Abstract
BackgroundCancer-related cognitive impairment (CRCI) may negatively affect upwards of 75% of cancer patients. Exercise and cognitive training, independently, may increase functional capacity and aspects of cognitive function. Yet, combined training protocols have not been evaluated in cancer survivor populations. Therefore, the aim of this study was to explore the feasibility of a quasi-randomized, controlled, exploratory, repeated-measures aerobic and cognitive training intervention on cognitive function in participants undergoing treatment for cancer (N = 28).MethodsPre- and post-physical and cognitive assessments were administered. A 36-session (approximately 12 weeks) computer-based cognitive (COG), aerobic (AER), cognitive and aerobic (AER + COG), and flexibility (CON) training intervention was completed. Dependent measures t tests and pre- to post percentages were then calculated to address within-group changes for each dependent variable.ResultsWithin-group measures revealed that the AER logical memory scores (pre- to post mean difference [2.3], 95.0% CI [0.9, 3.7], percentage change [32.7%]), delayed recall scores (pre- to post mean difference [2.1], 95.0% CI [0.3, 3.9], percentage change [27.2%]), block design scores (pre- to post mean difference [1.7], 95.0% CI [0.2, 3.2], percentage change [19.0%]), and letter-number sequencing scores (pre- to post mean difference [1.0], 95.0% CI [0.2, 1.8], percentage change [12.3%]) all increased. Aspects of verbal fluidity scores increased in the CON group. However, all cognitive scores (AER + COG and COG groups) failed to increase.ConclusionsAerobic training for CRCI may positively impact cognitive function. Individually, these methods may appropriately address CRCI, but combined training of this nature may be too demanding for patients undergoing treatment for cancer. However, larger randomized trials are needed to substantiate this protocol in large-scale cancer rehabilitation centers.
Highlights
Cancer-related cognitive impairment (CRCI) may negatively affect upwards of 75% of cancer patients
While the exact mechanisms responsible for CRCI are unclear, there appear to be primary and secondary mechanisms, and the syndrome itself is likely to occur through multiple pathways
Cancer survivors have elevated levels of circulating cytokines which supports the possibility that immune function dysregulation accompanied by systemic inflammation may be a primary means by which CRCI is mediated [15,16,17]
Summary
Cancer-related cognitive impairment (CRCI) may negatively affect upwards of 75% of cancer patients. Up to 75% of cancer patients undergoing treatment experience some degree of cognitive dysfunction [1, 2], and up to 60% experience a deterioration in cognitive function even after chemotherapeutic treatments have completed [3]. This phenomenon has been described as chemotherapy-related or cancer-related cognitive impairment (CRCI) [4, 5], and it can have farreaching effects on reaction time, organizational skills, linguistic abilities, attention [6], quality of life, activities of daily living, memory, and concentration [7,8,9]. Cancer survivors have elevated levels of circulating cytokines which supports the possibility that immune function dysregulation accompanied by systemic inflammation may be a primary means by which CRCI is mediated [15,16,17]
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