In a nutshell
This study investigated the impact of resistance training on markers of inflammation in breast cancer survivors. The study concluded that resistance training might be beneficial in improving inflammation in breast cancer survivors.
Some background
Inflammation is a normal part of the immune system response to an invader, such as bacteria. Inflammation can cause swelling, heat, redness and pain. Some breast tumors have the ability to use inflammation for growth. Inflammation can help to grow blood vessels that tumors need for growth. Inflammation may also play a role in helping tumor cells to spread. It is possible that blocking inflammation could have an effect on breast cancer growth and outcome.
Aerobic exercise (such as running or cycling) has been shown to improve inflammation in breast cancer survivors. It is not clear whether resistance training (such as weight lifting) is also effective in improving inflammation.
Methods & findings
The current study investigated the impact of resistance training on inflammation in breast cancer survivors. The study included 39 breast cancer survivors, who were randomly assigned to one of two groups. The resistance-training group performed supervised exercise 3 times a week for 16 weeks. The training involved the use of exercise machines and free weights. The control group received standard non-exercise care. Immune cells and inflammatory markers (molecules that indicate inflammation is present in the body) were examined and measured before and after training.
The resistance-training group had significantly lower levels of an inflammatory marker present on their immune cells at the end of the study compared to the control group. There were no significant changes in the markers of inflammation that could be detected in the blood. The strength of participants in the resistance-training group was significantly higher when compared to the control group.
The bottom line
The study concluded that resistance training reduced the expression of inflammatory markers on cells in the body and therefore could potentially improve inflammation in breast cancer survivors.
The fine print
A limitation of this study was the difficulty in measuring indicators of inflammation, as the inflammatory marker of interest was not present in over half of the participants.
What’s next?
DIscuss with your doctor whether resistance training could be beneficial.
Published By :
Breast Cancer Research and Treatment
Date :
Jan 28, 2016
