Study Reveals Aerobic and Resistance Training May Lower Breast Cancer Recurrence
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Synopsis
Research indicates that engaging in moderate- to high-intensity aerobic exercises two to three times weekly, along with resistance training, can potentially decrease the recurrence rate of breast cancer, offering new hope for survivors.
Key Takeaways
- Moderate- to high-intensity aerobic exercises are crucial.
- Resistance training should be included multiple times a week.
- Recurrence rates can be as high as 30 percent in aggressive cancers.
- Exercise can reduce pro-inflammatory biomarkers.
- Chronic inflammation is linked to cancer recurrence.
New Delhi, March 29 (NationPress) Engaging in moderate- to high-intensity aerobic exercises two to three times a week, complemented by resistance training several times per week, could significantly lower the chances of breast cancer recurrence, as indicated by recent research.
Activities such as swimming, running, and stair climbing qualify as aerobic exercises, while resistance training includes movements like push-ups and bench presses.
The study conducted by Edith Cowan University (ECU) in Australia highlighted that despite advancements in breast cancer treatments, recurrences are still prevalent and pose increased mortality risks.
In cases of aggressive cancer, the likelihood of recurrence can soar to 20 to 30 percent.
The findings revealed that combining resistance and aerobic exercises could diminish pro-inflammatory biomarkers associated with various cancer therapies.
“Breast cancer treatments, such as chemotherapy, radiation therapy, or endocrine therapy, can elevate inflammation levels in the body. Chronic inflammation may heighten the risk of breast cancer recurrence as it can foster the progression and development of cancer cells,” explained Francesco Bettariga, a doctoral student at ECU.
In the research published in JNCI: Journal of the National Cancer Institute, Bettariga and his team explored the impact of exercise on women diagnosed with non-metastatic breast cancer.
“Our study discovered that three inflammation markers were notably decreased through consistent exercise, indicating a promising outcome,” Bettariga remarked.
Though the precise mechanisms behind the inflammation reduction are still under investigation, Bettariga mentioned that one hypothesis suggests that exercise may cause muscle tissues to release chemicals that help lower inflammation.
Another theory proposes that increases in muscle mass and decreases in body fat could be responsible for the observed reduction in inflammation markers.
“Currently, there are no established guidelines regarding the amount of exercise recommended, but we advocate for moderate- to high-intensity aerobic exercises two to three times a week, with additional resistance training a few times per week,” advised Bettariga.
