The Effects of Tai Chi and Walking on Fatigue and Body Mass Index in Women Living with Breast Cancer: A Pilot Study

Abstract

Purpose: The purpose of this study was to examine the effect of Tai Chi and walking on cancer related fatigue (CRF) and body mass index (BMI) in women living with breast cancer. Subjects: Eleven women between the ages of 40 to 59 were randomized to the Tai Chi or walking intervention. Methods: A specific program was designed and modified for this population by a Tai Chi instructor and was administered for 1 hour 3 times throughout the study. The walking program also had similar group meetings, which included postural assessment, stretching, and education. All participants were given videos to reinforce the 3 group sessions and received weekly phone calls to answer questions regarding the program. Primary outcome measures included the 6-minute walk test and the body mass index. Survey instruments included the Functional Assessment of Cancer Therapy-Breast (FACT-B) and the Brief Fatigue Inventory (BFI). All measures were taken at baseline and at 6 weeks. Subjects kept a diary of when they performed the program and how they felt throughout the 6-week intervention. Results: Due to the small number of subjects, no statistical significance was found. Trends in the functional measures showed decreased blood pressure and decreased fatigue for both groups. The walking group had an increase in body mass index (BMI) of +0.33, while the Tai Chi group had a decrease in BMI of −0.03. Analysis of the diaries revealed the following frequency of responses (1) walking and Tai Chi group intervention motivated the participants to participate in a regular exercise program and (2) both interventions fostered decreased fatigue and new awareness/learning. Discussion: Patients with CRF might benefit from Tai Chi and walking interventions. The impact on fatigue and BMI may be a primary outcome for further study. Additional functional outcome measures should be explored. This pilot study supports the need for further research in the effect of alternative forms of exercise to manage fatigue in this population.