Potential Benefits Of Physical Activity Research Articles

Association between physical activity changes and risk of incident ischemic stroke following cancer diagnosis: A nationwide retrospective cohort study.

Physical inactivity is prevalent after cancer treatment, which could increase ischemic stroke risk in cancer survivors. This study investigated the association between physical activity change from pre- to post-diagnosis and ischemic stroke risk among cancer survivors. Using data from the Korean National Health Insurance Service database, 269,943 cancer survivors (mean [SD] age, 56.3 [12.1] years; 45.7% male) with no history of cardiovascular disease were evaluated based on changes in physical activity from pre- to post-diagnosis. Using the Fine-Gray model, subdistribution hazard ratios (sHRs) and 95% confidence intervals (CIs) for ischemic stroke risk were calculated, considering death as a competing risk. After cancer diagnosis, 62.0% remained inactive, 10.1% remained active, 16.6% became active, and 11.4% became inactive. During a mean (SD) follow-up of 4.1 (2.0) years, being active both pre- and post-diagnosis was associated with a 15% decreased risk of ischemic stroke (sHR, 0.85; 95% CI, 0.75-0.96), compared with those who remained inactive. Cancer survivors who became active and inactive post-diagnosis showed a 16% and 11% lower ischemic stroke risk (sHR, 0.84; 95% CI, 0.75-0.93; sHR, 0.89; 95% CI, 0.79-0.99), respectively, than those who remained inactive. Analysis by the primary cancer site did not substantially differ from the main findings. Physical activity is associated with reduced ischemic stroke risk among cancer survivors. The potential benefits of physical activity are not limited to individuals who were physically active before cancer diagnosis, thus preventive strategies against ischemic stroke should emphasize physical activity throughout the cancer journey.

Physical exercise/sports ameliorate the internet addiction from college students during the pandemic of COVID-19 in China.

The rapid advancement of modern technology has significantly driven progress in various IT-related activities, resulting in a substantial increase in internet penetration rates, particularly among college students. The utilization of the internet has become one of the most essential tools in our modern society. However, internet addiction (IA) has emerged as a serious concern, particularly among college students, adversely affecting academic performance and having significant psychological and psychiatric implications. The aim of the current study was to determine the impact of physical exercise, gender and academic year on IA among college students. In the present study, we investigated internet usage, engagement in sports activities, and academic performance among college students from Western, Middle, and Eastern regions of Chinese universities. It's noteworthy that most of the respondents were freshmen. Our findings indicate that freshmen students were more susceptible to experiencing IA. Approximately 75% of students engaged in leisure sports activities, revealing an inverse correlation between sports activity and IA. This correlation aligns with the level of sports involvement, emphasizing the potential benefits of physical activity in mitigating IA. However, our study did not uncover any correlation between geographic location and the occurrence of IA, nor did it find differences between medical and non-medical students. Furthermore, our study revealed no significant variations in IA among students from different ethnic backgrounds. The underlying mechanism of IA is being currently determined. Our data suggest that physical exercise, gender, and academic year have a significant impact on IA among college students.

Impact of voluntary exercise training on the metabolic and behavioral characteristics of the rTg4510 transgenic mouse model of frontotemporal dementia

Frontotemporal dementia (FTD) is a neurodegenerative disorder that affects the frontal and temporal lobes of the brain, primarily in individuals under 65 years of age, and is the second most common form of dementia worldwide. There is no cure for FTD and current treatments offer limited symptomatic relief. Regular physical activity exhibits cognitive and neuroprotective benefits in healthy individuals and in various neurodegenerative diseases, such as Alzheimer's disease, but few studies have examined its efficacy in FTD. Accordingly, we investigated the impact of voluntary exercise training (VET) on the metabolic and behavioral characteristics of the rTg4510 transgenic mouse model of familial FTD. We show that regardless of genotype, VET increased energy expenditure, decreased sleep duration, and improved long-term memory in rTg4510 mice and WT littermates. Moreover, VET appeared to improve hyperactivity, a common feature of FTD, in rTg4510 mice. Although further work is required, these findings provide important insights into the potential benefits of physical activity in FTD.

Assessing the impact of physical activity on bone density, cardiopulmonary function, and metabolic health in stroke survivors.

Stroke survivors often face motor impairments leading to decreased physical activity, which can, in turn, result in secondary health-related issues like cardiovascular and pulmonary impairment and osteoporosis. This research finds out the impact of physical activity on bone mineral density, cardiopulmonary health, and metabolic status in stroke survivors. The goal is to generate knowledge to inform rehabilitation strategies, emphasizing the significant role of regular exercise in enhancing the health of individuals recovering from stroke. This study was conducted using a cross-sectional study design, and involved 100 stroke survivors selected through stratified random sampling. Physical activity was measured using the validated Stroke-Specific Physical Activity Questionnaire. Health outcomes were assessed through various means: bone mineral density via the OSTEOKJ3000 ultrasonic bone densitometer; resting heart rate and blood pressure via an automated monitor; lipid profiles through the CardioChek PA analyzer; Hb1Ac levels via the A1CNow + System; and respiratory parameters through a spirometer. Statistical analysis revealed bone mineral density is positively correlated with physical activity (R = 0.53, P < .001). Additionally, an association was found between physical activity and improved cardiopulmonary function (resting heart rate r = -0.45, P < .001; forced expiratory volume in one second R = 0.30, P = .0023; forced vital capacity R = 0.28, P = .0041). Moreover, higher physical activity levels correlated with lower low-density lipoprotein cholesterol levels (r = -0.35, P = .0007), higher high-density lipoprotein cholesterol levels (R = 0.33, P = .0012), and better glycaemic control (HbA1c r = -0.40, P = .0002). This study highlights the significant benefits of physical activity for stroke survivors, showing positive impacts on bone density, cardiopulmonary function, and metabolic health. It underscores the need to include regular exercise in rehabilitation strategies to mitigate secondary health complications and enhance the overall health of stroke survivors. Future research should continue investigating the potential benefits of physical activity in this population.

Cardiorespiratory fitness and health-related quality of life in survivors of childhood central nervous system tumours

PurposeWe assessed cardiorespiratory fitness and health-related quality of life (HRQoL) in survivors of childhood central nervous system (CNS) tumours.MethodsParticipants were recruited from the National Children’s Cancer Service in Children’s Health Ireland at Crumlin. Inclusion criteria included diagnosis of a primary CNS tumour, aged between 6 and 17 years, between 3 months and 5 years post completion of oncology treatment, independently mobile, and deemed clinically appropriate to participate by treating oncologist. Cardiorespiratory fitness was assessed using the six-minute walk test. HRQoL was assessed with the PedsQL Generic Core Scales, Version 4.0.ResultsThirty-four participants (n = 16 male) were recruited, with a mean age of 12.21 ± 3.31 years and a mean time since completion of oncology treatment of 2.19 ± 1.29 years. Mean six-minute walk distance (6MWD) achieved was 489.56 ± 61.48 m, equating to the 8th percentile overall. 6MWD was significantly reduced when compared to predicted population norms (p < 0.001). PedsQL parent proxy-report and child-report scores were significantly lower when compared to healthy paediatric norms (p < 0.001 – p = 0.011). A significant positive correlation was found between 6MWD and both parent proxy-report (r = 0.55, p < 0.001) and child-report (r = 0.48, p = 0.005) PedsQL total scores.ConclusionSurvivors of childhood CNS tumours present with impaired cardiorespiratory fitness and HRQoL. Higher levels of cardiorespiratory fitness are associated with higher levels of HRQoL.Implications for Cancer SurvivorsRoutine screening of cardiorespiratory fitness and HRQoL in survivors of childhood CNS tumours may be beneficial. Healthcare providers should encourage and provide education on the potential benefits of physical activity to improve overall quality of life.

Physical Activity and cardiovascular function in 9-year-old schoolchildren: implications for health and well-being

Background and Study Aim. Sedentary lifestyles are major risk factors for cardiovascular diseases later in life. Identifying the potential benefits of physical activity for the cardiovascular health of children is crucial for developing effective strategies to promote healthy habits and prevent future health problems. Purpose of the article is to investigate the relationship between physical activity and cardiovascular function in 9-year-old schoolchildren, taking into account the gender.&#x0D; Materials and Methods. The study participants were 27 students of the 3rd grade (10 boys, 17 girls) of secondary school № 58 in Kharkiv, Ukraine. All children were healthy and were under the supervision of a medical worker. Consent was obtained from both the school administration and the parents of the children. The functional state of the cardiovascular system of children was determined by the indices of the Robinson index and the Ruffier index. To calculate these indicators, we measured heart rate (HR) and blood pressure (BP) at rest and after exercise (30 squats in 45 seconds).&#x0D; Results. There were no significant differences between boys and girls in heart rate, systolic and diastolic blood pressure, heart rate at rest and recovery after exercise. The average level of reserves and efficiency of the cardiovascular system was revealed. A higher than average level of the response of the cardiovascular system to standard physical activity was revealed.&#x0D; Conclusions. The results of this study suggest that the functional capabilities of the cardiovascular system of 9-year-old students are generally at an average level and that there are no significant differences between boys and girls in terms of heart rate, blood pressure, and diastolic blood pressure. These findings could be useful for developing physical education programs for children and for identifying children who may require additional cardiovascular health monitoring or interventions.

Physical Activity and Cancer Care-A Review.

Simple SummaryThe aim of this paper is to outline the role and potential benefits of physical activity for cancer patients. We present a review of publications on the subject in order to compare the findings reported in the literature and draw general conclusions that could help clinicians who provide cancer care to develop a more comprehensive treatment approach. This review may also help patients overcome barriers and become more motivated to take up physical activity, which would improve their quality of life. We wish to demonstrate to patients that physical activity should not be regarded as a burdensome medical recommendation but rather as a factor that can reduce the risk of cancer mortality and recurrence.In 2020, 19.3 million new cancer cases were diagnosed, and almost 10 million deaths from cancer were recorded. Cancer patients may experience fatigue, depression, anxiety, reduced quality of life and sleep problems. Cancer treatments cause numerous side effects and have a negative impact on all body systems. Physical activity is important for cancer patients. The aim of this review is to analyse recent studies on the role of physical activity in cancer patients and emphasize its importance. The review included 36 papers published in English between 2017 and 2021. The findings from these studies show that physical activity decreases the severity of side effects of cancer treatment, reduces fatigue, improves quality of life, has a positive impact on mental health and improves aerobic fitness in cancer patients. Moreover, it reduces the risk of cancer recurrence and death. Physical activity is recommended for patients with any type of cancer and at all stages of treatment. The type of physical activity should depend on the condition of the individual patient. It is extremely difficult to determine what type, intensity and duration of physical activity is likely to have the greatest effect.

Associations of active and inactive travel with chronic diseases in Taipei City

ObjectivesActive travel promotes transport-related physical activity and inactive travel increases sedentary times. Active travel might be a modifiable and efficient approach for preventing chronic diseases in urban populations. The purpose of this study was to explore associations of active and inactive travel with urban residents’ overweight, obesity, and chronic diseases. MethodsA cross-sectional study was conducted in Taipei City through an anonymous street-intercept survey. A self-reported transport physical activity questionnaire was used to collect data on the amount of travel time using active travel modes (by walking, cycling, bus, the subway, or train) and inactive travel modes (by motorcycle or car) in the past week. Descriptive analyses, independent t-tests, a one-way ANOVA, and a logistic regression were performed for data analysis. ResultsIn total, 1365 urban residents responded; 391 (28.64%) participants had at least one diagnosis of a chronic disease. Participants who were female, single, aged 20–34 years, and with a college or graduate degree had a significantly higher weekly average amount of time using active travel modes than did their counterparts. The amount of residents’ travel time using the subway and train (odds ratio (OR): 0.95 [95% confidence interval: 0.91, 0.99]) revealed a significant negative association, while the amounts of travel time using a car as a driver (OR: 1.08 [1.04, 1.12]) and using a car as a passenger (OR: 1.10 [1.02, 1.18]) revealed significant positive associations with the odds of all chronic diseases. ConclusionsUrban residents who engage in active travel have potential benefits of physical activity and health promotion. Transforming urban residents from inactive into active commuters is recommended to prevent chronic diseases in urban populations.

Occupational and Leisure-Time Physical Activity Have Different Relationships With Health: A Cross-Sectional Survey Study of Working Nurses.

Recent research has focused on the potential benefits of physical activity in occupational settings in addition to leisure time. However, occupational physical activity (OPA) differs substantially for occupations that require heavy and repetitive physical work, such as nursing. We explored associations between leisure time and OPA and health outcomes in working nurses and midwives. Nurses who were enrolled in the Fit For the Future study (New South Wales, Australia) and who completed physical activity questionnaires (n = 4343) were classified according to high (HO) or low (LO) occupational and high (HL) or low (LL) leisure-time physical activity (LTPA): HO performed walking/heavy labor most/all of the time at work; HL met the guidelines of 150minutes per week moderate to vigorous LTPA, creating 4 categories: HOLL, HOHL, LOHL, and LOLL. HL predicted better self-rated health (unstandardized B = 0.51, 95% confidence interval, 0.44 to 0.57) and lower likelihood of ≥3 sick days in the past 12months (OR: 0.71, 95% confidence interval, 0.61 to 0.83), whereas HO predicted higher likelihood of ≥3 sick days (OR: 1.17, 95% confidence interval, 1.01 to 1.35), adjusting for all variables. OPA may not confer the same health benefits as LTPA for nurses. Health-promoting interventions should emphasize the importance of achieving adequate moderate to vigorous LTPA for all, including those undertaking substantial OPA.

The prospective association between physical activity and memory in the Canadian Longitudinal Study on Aging (CLSA)

AbstractBackgroundPhysical activity is a recommended health behaviour and there exists a literature base linking physical activity and cognition in mid‐life and older adulthood. Yet, longitudinal study of physical activity and cognition is needed in order to account for determinants of health which may affect participation in physical activity and attenuate previously observed relationships. The aim of this study was to examine the longitudinal relationship between different intensities of physical activity and memory at first three‐year follow‐up in a large prospective survey of Canadian adults.MethodData were drawn from the Canadian Longitudinal Study of Aging (CLSA), an ongoing prospective cohort study. Participants self‐reported a number of health behaviours, health‐professional diagnosed conditions, and social and demographic factors. Physical activity was measured using the Physical Activity Scale for the Elderly (PASE). Past‐week activity was classified according to type of intensity (e.g., strenuous) and duration (e.g., minutes [mins] and hours [hrs]). Memory was assessed using the Rey Auditory Verbal Learning Test, with higher scores reflective of better memory performance. We used linear regression modelling to examine associations between physical activity at baseline and memory three‐years later, after adjustment for an array of potential confounders.ResultIn fully adjusted models, the pattern of findings across type of activity and duration was mixed. We observed a protective relationship of physical activity at some levels of walking (30mins to &lt;1 hr: b= 0.14, p=0.021, 1hr to &lt;2 hrs: b= 0.14, p=0.029), light activity (1hr to &lt;2 hrs: b= 0.17, p=0.035, 2 hours or more: b= 0.15, p=0.050), moderate activity (1hr to &lt;2 hrs: b= 0.38, p&lt;0.001, 2 hours or more: b= 0.35, p&lt;0.001), and strenuous activity (1hr to &lt;2 hrs: b= 0.18, p=0.004). No prospective relationships were observed for strength‐based activities.ConclusionCertain types of physical activity were associated with better memory at follow‐up. On average, activities within the 1 to 2 hour range were most beneficial. Potential benefits of physical activity on memory may only be realized after other health considerations are first considered.

A case-control study on physical activity of teenagers with adolescent idiopathic scoliosis

Abstract Background Adolescent idiopathic scoliosis affects 2-3% of all teenagers. It is one of the most common chronic conditions in this age group, but studies on the physical activity (PA) of AIS patients are scarce. The available trials report conflicting findings when comparing the PA of children with AIS to healthy controls. Considering its possible role in the development of AIS and the potential benefits of PA, the topic should be further researched. This study aims to investigate the subject by comparing the physical activity of children with AIS to a group of healthy peers. Methods The study included 80 teenagers (aged 11-18 years) with AIS and 65 healthy age and gender-matched controls from Varna, Bulgaria. Data was collected after receiving informed consent from the parents. Children with chronic conditions (except AIS) were excluded. Information on AIS was taken from the available medical documentation. Data on PA during the last 7 days was collected via a standardized physical activity questionnaire for adolescents (PAQ-A). PAQ-A results vary from 1 (lowest PA) to 5 (highest PA). PAQ-A=2.75 has been found to correspond to the minimum recommended by WHO for this age group - 60mins of daily moderate to vigorous PA. Results None of the participants with AIS reported reduced PA due to impaired or restricted physical functions. The majority of children (78.8%) had mild scoliotic curvatures (Cobb angle 10°-20°). The mean PAQ-A score in AIS cases was 2.59 compared to 2.88 in controls. There was a statistically significant difference in PAQ-A score between the two groups (t = 2.722, p &amp;lt; 0.001). 59% of AIS had a PAQ-A score under 2.75, indicating that they do not meet the minimum PA recommendation by WHO, compared to 31% of the control group. Conclusions Patients with AIS have significantly lower PA than their healthy peers. The majority of children with AIS do not meet the minimum PA recommendations by the WHO. Key messages Our study reveals that children with AIS and mild curvatures have lower PA than their healthy peers despite not reporting impaired or restricted physical functions. Future prospective studies should investigate whether PA plays a role in the etiology of AIS.

Sarcopenia and serum biomarkers of oxidative stress after a 6-month physical activity intervention in women with metastatic breast cancer: results from the ABLE feasibility trial

PurposeSarcopenia has been identified as an important prognostic factor for patients with cancer. This study aimed at exploring the potential associations between a 6-month physical activity intervention and muscle characteristics, sarcopenia, oxidative stress and toxicities in patients with metastatic breast cancer.MethodsWomen newly diagnosed with metastatic breast cancer (N = 49) participated in an unsupervised, personalized, 6-month physical activity intervention with activity tracker. Computerized tomography images at the third lumbar vertebra were analysed at baseline, three months and six months to assess sarcopenia (muscle mass index < 40 cm2/m2) and muscle quality (poor if muscle attenuation < 37.8 Hounsfield Units). Oxidative markers included plasma antioxidant enzymes (catalase, glutathione peroxidase and superoxide dismutase activities), prooxidant enzymes (NADPH oxidase and myeloperoxidase activities) and oxidative stress damage markers (advanced oxidation protein products, malondialdehyde (MDA) and DNA oxidation.ResultsAt baseline 53% (mean age 55 years (SD 10.41)) were sarcopenic and 75% had poor muscle quality. Muscle cross sectional area, skeletal muscle radiodensity, lean body mass remained constant over the six months (p = 0.75, p = 0.07 and p = 0.75 respectively), but differed significantly between sarcopenic and non-sarcopenic patients at baseline and 6-months. Sarcopenic patients at baseline were more likely to have an increase of MDA (p = 0.02) at 6 months. Being sarcopenic during at least one moment during the 6-month study was associated with a higher risk of developing severe toxicities (grade > 2) (p = 0.02).ConclusionsThis study suggests potential benefits of physical activity for maintenance of muscle mass. Sarcopenia can alter many parameters and disturb the pro and antioxidant balance.

University students‘ physical activity: a human capital perspective

Physical activities often are overlooked at the university level. Young adults at this stage of their lives are focused on building their professional careers and expanding their social circles, often at the expense of physical activities. However, sufficient evidence supports the importance of continuing physical activities during university days. This article brings together evidence of this impact and highlights the lack of strategies, regulations, and policies surrounding the promotion of physical activities at universities. It spotlights some of the existing barriers, concluding that with existing facilities on most campuses today and the potential benefits of physical activity, its promotion seems to be an opportunity with minimal cost and considerable gains.

Assessment Of Cardiorespiratory Fitness In Older Adults With Cognitive Impairment

Interest in the potential benefits of physical activity (PA) and exercise on cognition in late life has grown exponentially in the past decade. Peak oxygen uptake (VO2) is one of the most widely used metrics of physical fitness. The most accurate measure of VO2 is cardiopulmonary testing (CPX); however, this method may not be easily accessible in many settings nor appropriate for all populations, including older adults. Self-report measures of PA are easily administered and readily available, yet these measures rely on an accurate recall of past activity. This may be difficult for older adults with even mild forms of cognitive impairment. Identifying alternative methods that accurately estimate a patient’s physical fitness are essential. PURPOSE: To evaluate the use of multiple measures of physical fitness in a sample of older adults with amnestic Mild Cognitive Impairment (aMCI). METHODS: The sample included 105 older adults who were diagnosed with aMCI (93.3% male, aged = 71.2 ± 9.2 years). Measures of physical fitness included CPX, 6-minute walk test (6MWT), and the Yale Physical Activity Survey (YPAS). Analysis included comparison of the sub-maximal measures of physical fitness (6MWT) and self-report measures (YPAS) with directly-measured cardiorespiratory fitness on key measures on physiologic measures of fitness (e.g., peak VO2, resting blood pressure (BP), BMI). RESULTS: The 6MWT demonstrated a stronger correlation with directly-measured peak VO2 (r = 0.62, p = 0.00) compared to YPAS. The YPAS activity dimensions summary index (composed of questions on vigorous activity, leisurely walking, moving, sitting, and standing) correlated marginally with VO2max (r = 0.28; P = 0.01). The YPAS index of vigorous activity was slightly correlated with VO2max (r = 0.21; P = 0.03). CPX was inversely correlated with BMI (r=-0.21; P=0.03) and non-significantly with resting BP. Resting BP and BMI was not significantly associated with 6MWT nor the YPAS indices. CONCLUSION: The present analysis suggests that even mild forms of cognitive impairment impact the validity of self-report measures of physical fitness. Sub-maximal tests of aerobic capacity, such as the 6MWT, provide more accurate estimates of cardiorespiratory fitness and are easily administered in a variety of settings in which older adults receive health care.

Assessing the effect of physical activity and exercise on nurses' well-being.

It is generally accepted that physical activity has many health benefits, such as improved cardiorespiratory fitness, muscular fitness and bone health. Despite this, inactivity remains a significant health challenge in the UK and globally, contributing to conditions such as coronary heart disease and diabetes mellitus. Nurses have an important health promotion role in recommending the potential benefits of physical activity to the general public. However, research suggests that many nurses may not be undertaking enough physical activity themselves, despite the active nature of the nursing role. This article investigates the evidence that increased physical activity has the potential to improve the well-being of nurses. The article also examines the effect of physical activity on indicators of well-being, including feeling states such as affect, mood and emotion; depression; and sleep.

Potential Benefits of Physical Activity in MCI and Dementia

Physical activity improves overall health and reduces the risk of many negative health outcomes and may be effective in improving cognition, independent functioning, and psychological health in older adults. Given the evidence linking physical activity with improvements in various aspects of health and functioning, interventions exploring pathways for decreasing risk of dementia in those with mild cognitive impairment (MCI) and improving outcomes for those with dementia are of critical importance. The present review highlights the work examining physical activity interventions in order to achieve a comprehensive understanding of the potential benefits of physical activity for individuals experiencing cognitive decline. The primary focus is on aerobic exercise as this is the main intervention in the literature. Our review supports the thesis that physical activity can promote healthy aging in terms of cognition, independent functioning, and psychological health for individuals experiencing cognitive decline. Specifically, physical activity improves cognition, especially executive functioning and memory in MCI, independent functioning in MCI and dementia, and psychological health in dementia. Given that benefits of physical activity have been observed across these domains, such interventions provide an avenue for preventing decline and/or mitigating impairment across several domains of functioning in older adults with MCI or dementia and may be recommended (and adjusted) for patients across a range of settings, including medical and mental health settings. Further implications for clinical intervention and future directions for research are discussed.

Feasibility and Health Benefits of an Individualized Physical Activity Intervention in Women With Metastatic Breast Cancer: Intervention Study.

BackgroundThere is limited knowledge regarding the potential benefits of physical activity in patients with metastatic breast cancer.ObjectiveThe Advanced stage Breast cancer and Lifestyle Exercise (ABLE) Trial aimed to assess the feasibility of a physical activity intervention in women with metastatic breast cancer and to explore the effects of physical activity on functional, psychological, and clinical parameters.MethodsThe ABLE Trial was a single-arm, 6-month intervention study with a home-based, unsupervised, and personalized walking program using an activity tracker. At baseline and 6 months, we assessed anthropometrics, functional fitness, physical activity level, sedentary behavior, quality of life, fatigue, and tumor progression. Paired proportions were compared using the McNemar test and changes of parameters during the intervention were analyzed using the Wilcoxon signed-rank test, the Mann-Whitney test, and Spearman rank correlations.ResultsOverall, 49 participants (mean age 55 years; recruitment rate 94%) were enrolled and 96% adhered to the exercise prescription (attrition rate 2%). Statistically significant improvements in the 6-minute walking distance test (+7%, P<.001) and isometric quadriceps strength (+22%, P<.001), as well as decreases in body mass index (-2.5%, P=.03) and hip circumference (-4.0%, P<.001) were observed at 6 months. Quality of life remained stable and a nonstatistically significant decrease (-16%, P=.07) in fatigue was observed.ConclusionsThe high recruitment and adherence rates suggest the willingness of patients with metastatic breast cancer to participate in a physical activity program. The beneficial outcomes regarding physical fitness and anthropometry of this unsupervised physical activity program may encourage these patients to maintain a physically active lifestyle. Future randomized controlled trials with larger sample sizes are warranted.Trial RegistrationClinicalTrials.gov NCT03148886; https://clinicaltrials.gov/ct2/show/NCT03148886

The effects of stress on cardiovascular disease and Alzheimer's disease: Physical exercise as a counteract measure.

AD is a complicated multi-systemic neurological disorder that involves different biological pathways. Several risk factors have been identified, including chronic stress. Chronic stress produces an alteration in the activity of the hypothalamic pituitary adrenal (HPA) system, and the autonomic nervous system (ANS), which over time increase the risk of AD and also the incidence of cardiovascular disease (CVD) and risk factors, such as hypertension, obesity and type 2 diabetes, associated with cognitive impairment and AD. Considering the multi-factorial etiology of AD, understanding the complex interrelationships between different risk factors is of potential interest for designing adequate strategies for preventing, delaying the onset or slowing down the progression of this devastating disease. Thus, in this review we will explore the general mechanisms and evidence linking stress, cardiovascular disease and AD, and discuss the potential benefits of physical activity for AD by counteracting the negative effects of chronic stress, CVD and risk factors.

Continuous, objective measurement of physical activity during chemotherapy for breast cancer: the Activity in Treatment pilot study.

Despite many potential benefits of physical activity during and after breast cancer treatment, activity levels typically decline from pre- to posttreatment. Most previous research has relied on self-reported activity. The purpose of this study were to assess patterns of daily, to objectively measured physical activity throughout chemotherapy for breast cancer, and to identify predictors of physical activity patterns. Participants were given a Fitbit before starting chemotherapy and asked to wear it throughout chemotherapy. Restricted cubic splines assessed nonlinear patterns of Fitbit measured total physical activity (TPA) and moderate-to-vigorous physical activity (MVPA) throughout the duration of chemotherapy (mean = 17 weeks, standard deviation [SD] = 6.3). Mixed-effects regression models assessed the rate of physical activity decline. Regressions of subject-level random slope assessed predictors of the rate of physical activity decline on participant and cancer characteristics and self-reported physical and cognitive functioning. Participants (n = 32) were on average 50 years old; the majority had stage II breast cancer. MVPA declined linearly at a mean rate of 1.4 min/day (p = .002) for every 10% of chemotherapy completed, whereas TPA declined linearly at an average rate of 13.4 min/day (p = .0007) for every 10% of chemotherapy completed, until around halfway through chemotherapy, when activity rates leveled off. HER+ receptor status was associated with a greater rate of MVPA decline, β = 13.3, p = .04. This novel study of objectively measured daily MVPA throughout chemotherapy showed that most reductions in activity occurred during the first half of a course of chemotherapy. Targeting this early period of chemotherapy may be important for preventing declines in activity levels throughout chemotherapy.

Association of Accelerometer-Measured Light-Intensity Physical Activity With Brain Volume

Dementia risk may be attenuated by physical activity (PA); however, the specific activity levels optimal for dementia prevention are unclear. Moreover, most older adults are unable to meet the nationally recommended PA guidelines, set at 150 minutes of moderate to vigorous PA per week. To assess the association of total steps walked per day and total dose (intensity × duration) of PA with brain volumes on magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) among Framingham Heart Study participants. This cross-sectional, community-based cohort study of the association of accelerometry-determined PA with brain MRI measures in Framingham, Massachusetts, included the Framingham Heart Study third-generation (examination 2, 2008-2011) and offspring (examination 9, 2011-2014) cohorts. Of 4021 participants who agreed to wear an accelerometer and had valid data (≥10 hours/day for ≥3 days), 1667 participants who did not undergo brain MRI (n = 1604) or had prevalent dementia or stroke (n = 63) were excluded. Data analysis began in 2016 and was completed in February 2019. Physical activity achieved using accelerometry-derived total activity (steps per day) and 2 intensity levels (light intensity and moderate to vigorous intensity). Differences in total brain volume and other MRI markers of brain aging. The study sample of 2354 participants had a mean (SD) age of 53 (13) years, 1276 (54.2%) were women, and 1099 (46.7%) met the PA guidelines. Incremental light-intensity PA was associated with higher total brain volume; each additional hour of light-intensity PA was associated with approximately 1.1 years less brain aging (β estimate, 0.22; SD, 0.07; P = .003). Among individuals not meeting the PA guidelines, each hour of light-intensity PA (β estimate, 0.28; SD, 0.11; P = .01) and achieving 7500 steps or more per day (β estimate, 0.44; SD, 0.18; P = .02) were associated with higher total brain volume, equivalent to approximately 1.4 to 2.2 years less brain aging. After adjusting for light-intensity PA, neither increasing moderate to vigorous PA levels nor meeting the threshold moderate to vigorous PA level recommended by the PA guidelines were significantly associated with total brain volume. Every additional hour of light-intensity PA was associated with higher brain volumes, even among individuals not meeting current PA guidelines. These data are consistent with the notion that the potential benefits of PA on brain aging may accrue at a lower, more achievable level of intensity or duration.