Brain fitness programs and cognitive interventions for breast cancer survivors: Implications for clinical practice and research

JOINT EVENT:19^th Euro Congress on Cancer Science and Therapy & 25^th Cancer Nursing & Nurse Practitioners Conference

July 17-19, 2017 Lisbon, Portugal

David Eugene Vance, Jennifer R Bail, Jacqueline B, Jennifer Frank and Karen Meneses

University of Alabama at Birmingham, USA

Posters & Accepted Abstracts: J Cancer Sci Ther

Abstract :

Cognitive impairment negatively impacts quality of life and everyday functioning of breast cancer survivors (BCS). Brain fitness programs and cognitive interventions represent a research and clinical priority. Numerous factors (e.g., depression) contribute to cognitive impairment in BCS; however, the greatest burden is attributable to chemotherapy and endocrine therapy. Within the theoretical framework of cognitive reserve and neuroplasticity, each factor can weaken cognitive (brain) reserve detrimentally affecting cognition. Fortunately, numerous brain fitness and cognitive interventions benefit BCS. These interventions are epitomized in a pilot study examining the efficacy of a brain fitness program (i.e., speed of processing training) in BCS. A systematic review of 21 cognitive intervention studies identified within PubMed was conducted. In addition, preliminary results from an on-going study examining speed of processing training in BCS are provided. Compensatory strategies and brain fitness programs were shown to improve cognitive functioning in BCS. Pharmacological interventions (i.e., methylphenidate) were also shown to improve cognition, particularly attention. Memory and speed of processing training programs were shown to be effective in improving the cognitive domain being trained; however, no brain fitness programs targeted executive functioning. Psycho-educational programs and complementary medicine interventions were also found to improve cognition. Stimulating activities such as employment have not been investigated, despite exerting strong benefit in other clinical populations. Recommendations for cognitive interventions are provided by the National Comprehensive Cancer Network. Results of this review are provided within the context of neuroplasticity and cognitive reserve. Future interventions, especially behavioral approaches, are discussed as they may improve everyday functioning.

Biography :

Email: devance@uab.edu