Study of Combined Resistance and Aerobic Training for Improving Arm Strength and Function in Women Treated for Breast Cancer

What this Trial Is About

Breast cancer is one of the most common cancers affecting women worldwide, responsible for a significant number of cancer cases and deaths. Advances in screening and treatment have improved survival rates, but many women experience side effects after treatment, including upper limb dysfunction and lymphoedema, which can impact daily activities and quality of life. This study aims to explore how combined upper extremity aerobic and resistance exercise training, compared to aerobic exercise alone, affects arm exercise capacity, muscle strength, arm functionality, sarcopenia, frailty, quality of life, and lymphoedema in breast cancer patients. Participants will be randomly assigned to one of two groups one group will engage in a 12-week program of upper extremity aerobic exercise training with sessions three times a week lasting 25 minutes each, while the other group will receive the same aerobic exercise combined with progressive resistance training using elastic resistance bands gradually increased over 12 weeks. The study will assess the effects of these exercise programs on various physical and health outcomes related to breast cancer treatment side effects. During the study, participants will be evaluated over one year, including tests such as the 6-minute Pegboard and Ring Test and measures of maximal arm exercise capacity. Researchers will also assess quality of life, peripheral muscle strength, arm functionality, sarcopenia, frailty, lymphoedema, and other health parameters. This monitoring will help determine how the exercise programs influence recovery and physical function after breast cancer treatment.

Combined Upper Extremity Resistance and Aerobic Exercise Training in Patients With Breast Cancer