In a nutshell
This study investigated whether exercise was associated with a reduction in the risk of cardiovascular disease (CVD) in patients with non-metastatic breast cancer (BC). Exercise was found to be linked to a significant reduction in the risk of CVD for this patient group.
Some background
CVD is a leading cause of death among women with non-metastatic BC. This group may have a greater risk of CVD due to the effects of anti-cancer therapies. It is well known that regular exercise reduces the risk of CVD in the general population. However, the effect of regular exercise on the CVD risk of non-metastatic BC patients is not known.
Methods & findings
This study involved 2,973 women with non-metastatic BC. The average age was 57 years old. The study used a questionnaire to monitor the activity levels of the women. All cardiovascular events were recorded throughout the period of the study. The average follow up time was 8.6 years.
Light exercise (2 to 3 times per week) was associated with a 9% reduction in CVD risk when compared with little to no exercise. Moderate exercise was associated with a 21% reduction and vigorous exercise (3 to 5 times per week) was associated with a 35% reduction in CVD risk.
Following national guidelines of moderate exercise approximately 3 times per week was associated with a 23% reduction in the risk of CVD in comparison with those who did not meet the guidelines.
The bottom line
The study concluded that exercise was associated with a substantial reduction in the incidence of CVD among women with non-metastatic BC. This effect was found to be graded, with the reduction in CVD risk increasing with greater amounts of exercise.
The fine print
The study relied on self-reporting and measured the benefit of exercise over a relatively short time period, meaning the results may not be applicable over a longer time period. Further, other life style factors which may impact CVD incidence were not taken into account.
What’s next?
Consult with your doctor before beginning any new exercise regime.
Published By :
Journal of clinical oncology
Date :
May 23, 2016
