In a nutshell
The study aimed to investigate if home-based physical activity was effective in improving the symptoms of patients with breast cancer who were receiving primary treatment.
This study concluded that home-based physical activity is effective in improving some outcomes for these patients.
Some background
Many treatments for breast cancer (BC) have side effects. Physical activity such as walking is important in helping to reduce these side effects. However, it is not known if a home-based physical activity (HBPA) would help to reduce side effects and improve the outcomes of patients with BC who are receiving primary treatment.
Methods & findings
This study analyzed the results of 15 other studies that examined HPBA in patients with BC who are undergoing primary treatment.
In women receiving primary BC treatment, HBPA such as walking has a positive effect on physical functioning and symptoms such as fatigue, anxiety, and difficulty sleeping. For women receiving adjuvant chemotherapy (treatment after surgery) or radiation therapy, HBPA was effective in reducing symptoms and improving physical functioning.
The bottom line
This study concluded that HBPA was effective in reducing some symptoms and improving physical functioning for patients with BC who are receiving primary treatment.
The fine print
This study analyzed information from other trials with different protocols. Further studies are needed to clarify the impact of HBPA on other outcomes.
What’s next?
Consult your physician about the benefits of HBPA.
Published By :
Breast Cancer Research and Treatment
Date :
Sep 06, 2019
