The Impact of High-Intensity Interval Training Exercise on Breast Cancer Survivors: A Pilot Study to Explore Fitness, Cardiac Regulation and Biomarkers of the Stress Systems

Not Applicable

Completed

• Conditions: Breast Cancer; Cancer - Breast

• Registration Number: ACTRN12620000684921
• Lead Sponsor: niversity of Canberra

Brief Summary

Background: The aim of this study was to explore the impact of exercise intensity on aerobic fitness and autonomic cardiac regulation and salivary biomarkers of the stress systems and mucosal immunity, in breast cancer survivors. Methods: Seventeen participants (62 ± 8 years) were randomly assigned to; 1) high intensity interval training (HIIT; n = 6); 2) moderate-intensity, continuous aerobic training (CMIT; n = 5); or 3) a wait-list control (CON; n = 6) for a 12-week (36 session) stationary cycling intervention. Cardiorespiratory fitness (VO2peak), resting HRV and salivary biomarkers were measured at baseline 2-4 d pre-intervention and 2-4 d post the last exercise session. Key results: High-intensity interval training improved cardiovascular fitness in breast cancer survivors and improved cardiac regulation, and sympathetic nervous system (stress) responses in some individuals. High-intensity interval training was safe and effective for breast cancer survivors to participate in with promising results as a time-efficient intensity to improve physical health and stress.

Detailed Description

Not available

Study Timeline

• Results First Posted: 1900-01-01
• Study Completion: 2019-11-29
• Study Start: 2020-06-16
• Last Update Posted: 22 June 2020

Recruitment & Eligibility

• Status: Completed
• Sex: Female
• Target Recruitment: 17

Inclusion Criteria

Participants were included in this study if they were; (1) females between the ages of 50 and 75 years, (2) sedentary as classified by the American College of Sports Medicine, (3) were within two years post-cancer treatment and (4) did not take blood pressure medication (angiotensin-converting enzyme inhibitors or angiotensin receptor blockers or calcium channel blockers or beta-blockers), (5) did not have brain or bone metastasis or (6) a diagnosis of secondary cancers and (7) were able to perform the exercise sessions on a stationary cycle ergometer (Monark 828E Ergometer).

Exclusion Criteria

Anyone taking blood pressure medication
Brain or bone metastasis
A diagnosis of secondary cancers
Unable to perform exercise sessions on a stationary cycle

Study & Design

• Study Type: Interventional
• Study Design: Not specified