Commentary - (2024) Volume 9, Issue 4
Received: 01-Jul-2024, Manuscript No. jppr-24-143817;
Editor assigned: 03-Jul-2024, Pre QC No. P-143817;
Reviewed: 16-Jul-2024, QC No. Q-143817;
Revised: 22-Jul-2024, Manuscript No. R-143817;
Published:
29-Jul-2024
, DOI: 10.37421/2573-0312.2024.9.398
Citation: Christakumarounk, Gokce. “Impact of a Brief Supervised Exercise Program on Women with Breast Cancer.” Physiother Rehabil 9 (2024): 398.
Copyright: © 2024 Christakumarounk G. This is an open-access article distributed under the terms of the Creative Commons Attribution License, which permits unrestricted use, distribution and reproduction in any medium, provided the original author and source are credited.
Breast cancer is one of the most prevalent cancers among women worldwide and its treatment often involves a combination of surgery, chemotherapy, radiation therapy and hormonal therapies. While these interventions are essential for managing the disease and preventing recurrence, they can also lead to a range of side effects that impact quality of life, including fatigue, muscle weakness, reduced mobility and psychological distress. In recent years, there has been increasing recognition of the benefits of physical activity as an adjunctive treatment for breast cancer patients. Exercise has been shown to alleviate some of the adverse effects of cancer treatments, improve overall physical function and enhance psychological well-being. Despite this growing body of evidence, many breast cancer patients remain sedentary and there is a need for effective exercise interventions that are both feasible and impactful. Supervised exercise programs, where individuals receive guidance and support from trained professionals, offer a structured approach to integrating physical activity into the lives of cancer patients. This study aims to evaluate the effects of a short-term supervised exercise program specifically designed for women with breast cancer. By assessing physical, emotional and functional outcomes, the research seeks to determine whether a brief period of structured exercise can significantly improve the health and well-being of these individuals. The findings could provide valuable insights into the role of exercise in breast cancer care and inform the development of practical exercise recommendations for this population [1,2].
The study is designed as a clinical intervention trial to assess the impact of a short-term supervised exercise program on women undergoing treatment for breast cancer. Participants include a cohort of women at various stages of breast cancer treatment, ranging from those in active treatment to those in recovery. The exercise program is carefully structured to accommodate the unique needs and physical limitations of this population, ensuring safety and effectiveness. The study recruits women with a diagnosis of breast cancer who are currently receiving or have recently completed treatment. Participants are selected based on criteria such as current treatment status, overall health and consent to engage in physical activity. A control group of women with breast cancer who do not participate in the exercise program is also included to provide comparative data. The supervised exercise program spans eight weeks and includes a combination of aerobic and resistance training exercises. Sessions are conducted twice a week and led by certified fitness trainers with experience working with cancer patients. The program is designed to be adaptable, with exercises modified based on individual capabilities and treatment side effects. Activities include low-impact aerobic exercises such as walking or cycling, along with resistance training focusing on major muscle groups. Each session also incorporates flexibility and balance exercises to enhance overall physical function [2,3].
Objective measures of physical health are collected, including assessments of cardiovascular fitness, muscle strength and endurance. Standardized tests such as the 6-Minute Walk Test and handgrip strength measurements are used to evaluate changes in physical performance. Self-reported questionnaires are administered to assess changes in mood, fatigue and quality of life. Tools such as the Functional Assessment of Cancer Therapy (FACT) and the Profile of Mood States (POMS) are employed to capture the impact of the exercise program on psychological well-being. Participants' ability to perform daily activities and their overall functional status are evaluated through surveys and interviews. The assessment includes measures of Activities of Daily Living (ADLs) and overall functional independence. Statistical methods are used to analyze changes in physical, emotional and functional outcomes pre- and post-intervention. Comparative analyses are conducted between the exercise group and the control group to determine the effectiveness of the exercise program. Feedback from participants regarding their experiences with the exercise program is analyzed to identify themes related to program adherence, perceived benefits and challenges faced during the intervention [4,5].
The results of the study provide significant insights into the effects of a short-term supervised exercise program on women with breast cancer. The findings demonstrate that even a brief period of structured physical activity can lead to meaningful improvements in physical fitness, psychological well-being and functional status. Participants who engaged in the exercise program showed notable enhancements in cardiovascular endurance, muscle strength and overall physical function compared to the control group. Additionally, improvements in mood, reduced fatigue and increased quality of life were reported, underscoring the multifaceted benefits of exercise beyond physical health. However, the study also acknowledges the need for further research to explore long-term effects, optimal exercise regimens and the potential benefits of exercise for different subgroups of breast cancer patients. Future studies should aim to evaluate the sustainability of exercise benefits, investigate the impact of different types of exercise and assess how exercise can be best integrated into the broader context of cancer care. In conclusion, the study underscores the importance of incorporating supervised exercise programs into the care of women with breast cancer. The findings contribute to a growing body of evidence supporting exercise as a beneficial intervention, offering practical recommendations for healthcare providers and paving the way for future research in this vital area of cancer care.
None.
No conflict of interest.
