The Effects of Low to Moderate Intensity Aerobic Exercise on Fatigue in Breast Cancer Patients Following Clinical Treatment

Abstract

Abstract : To test the effects of a low to moderate intensity exercise on fatigue and overall QOL, both physiologically and psychologically in women who completed breast cancer treatment. Methods: Twenty-two women, ages 43-79, who had completed treatment for breast cancer, were randomly assigned to an exercise (n= 12) or control group (n = 10). The exercise group participated in a low-moderate intensity (30-50% heart rate reserve) aerobic exercise program 3 times a week for ten weeks. The control group did not participate in the exercise program. Physical functioning was measured by assessing peak aerobic capacity with a treadmill protocol. Both groups recorded their weekly level of fatigue using the Schwartz Cancer Fatigue Scale (SCFS) and Linear Analogue Self-Assessment (LASA). Results: Peak aerobic capacity increased in the exercise group 32%, which was significant, between (p = .0012) and within (p = .005) in the groups. The control group showed a decrease of 4.8%. Body fat decreased significantly within the exercise group over time (p = .0001). Sit and reach increased significantly within the exercise group 10% over time (p = .004). Body mass index decreased in the exercise group and this difference neared significance within the exercise group over time (p = .06). Fatigue reported with the SCFS decreased 55% in the exercise group and increased in the control group. This change was statistically significant between the groups (p = .0003) and within the groups (p =. 01). The decrease in depression in the exercise group (89%) neared significance (p = .052) and the difference between the two groups was significant (p = .04). Anxiety decreased significantly in the exercise group 86% (p = .03) and significantly different between the groups (p = .01). Confusion decreased significantly (p = .04) and anger decreased significantly (p = .02) between the exercise group compared to the control group. Energy increased 69% within the exercise group significantly (p = .0005).