The effect of longitudinal exercise programming in breast cancer patients.

Abstract

TPS12124 Background: Obesity and weight gain are significant concerns for breast cancer survivors. Obesity at diagnosis is an established negative prognostic factor and studies suggest that post-diagnosis weight gain may increase risk for recurrence and decrease disease free survival. Various interventions such as dietary modification, physical activity, individualized counseling, cognitive behavioral therapy, and combinations of these interventions have been studied in order to identify strategies for weight loss in breast cancer survivors. However, one of the main challenges have been to show sustainability in these interventions. Given the adverse consequences of weight gain after diagnosis, continued efforts to identify appropriate weight management interventions aimed at promoting overall health and long term survivorship are needed. Methods: We have opened an investigator initiated Breast Cancer Exercise Study that provides a tailored exercise program and body health assessments for breast cancer patients along their treatment journey. We are enrolling women diagnosed with breast cancer up to 2 years after their diagnosis into a two 12-week exercise program. Participants’ biometrics and physical assessments will be assessed at baseline to determine the appropriate exercise intensity to implement. Women will attend private 1:1, 90min sessions, 3 days/week. At the end of the initial 12-week program, biometric assessments are again performed and participants are then randomized to either: a) continue with individual exercise classes, 2 days/week or b) continue with group exercise classes, 2 days/week. The study follows their long term outcomes including cancer recurrence, exercise adherence as well as quality of life symptoms. The functional health assessment and subsequent personalized exercise program utilizes kinesiology students from University of Hawaii-Manoa during their clinical practicum and is based at our community partner facility the Rehabilitation Hospital of the Pacific. Body assessments and other biomarkers are evaluated through expertise at University of Hawaii Cancer Center. Collectively, our study exemplifies our partnership with community facilities, utilizes cutting edge research and incorporates local students, to provide an important health program for cancer patients all the while enriching our understanding of the unique patient population. The results of this project may help to develop standardized exercise protocols for breast cancer survivors and provide insights to other important health concerns. Clinical trial information: NCT04013568 .