Improving Brain Function Through Community Exercise in Women Over 50 Who Survived Breast Cancer

What this Trial Is About

Researchers are evaluating a community-based aerobic exercise intervention to improve cognitive function in breast cancer survivors aged 50 and older. The study focuses on memory, attention, and brain health, addressing cognitive challenges that impact daily life and quality of life after breast cancer treatment. This phase II trial also assesses the potential for scaling the exercise program and explores urinary metabolites as diet biomarkers. Participants are randomly assigned to one of two groups. The exercise group attends supervised sessions that gradually change in frequency and duration over 24 weeks, including treadmill walking and other cardiovascular equipment, with a total of 20 sessions. The comparison group participates in monthly health education classes, receives informational materials, and a one-year subscription to a health newsletter. Both groups undergo gait assessments, MRI scans, and wear accelerometers throughout the study. During the study, participants complete cognitive tests at baseline, after 6 months of intervention, and at a 12-month follow-up. Researchers measure changes in brain volume, white matter integrity, functional connectivity, and self-reported cognitive function. Fitness and cancer-related fatigue are also tracked. The study includes safety monitoring through physician clearance and provides follow-up assessments six months after completing the intervention, with total participation lasting up to one year.

Breast Cancer, Reasoning, and Activity Intervention