Trial Information

Adapted Physical Activity Effect on Aerobic Function and Fatigue in Patients With Breast Cancer Treated in Adjuvant Phase

Physical exercise has been identified as a major item of many chronic diseases and cancer
rehabilitation. It contributes to an improvement in the quality of life and to a decrease in
the current treatment side effects and mortality. Cancer in association with treatment
toxicity and an inactive lifestyle lead to a fall in physical capability and causes problems
in daily activities. The physical capacity and the tolerance for exercise fall
simultaneously leading to a deconditioning vicious circle which increases physical,
psychological and emotional symptoms of fatigue. Therefore, physical activity for health is
a valid and relevant way to improve quality of life and to manage cancer patient fatigue.
The aim of the study is the assessment of the effects of a physical activity retraining
program on aerobic capacity, strength and fatigue, in a breast cancer population treated by
adjuvant chemotherapy.

A total of 44 subjects is required. The programme is organised as follows: Arm A (aerobic
and strength training) and during the 27 weeks of treatment (chemotherapy and radiotherapy);
Arm B (control group). This study includes 3 assessments phases (T0: before adjuvant
chemotherapy; T1 (week 27) and T2: final evaluation at the 54th week). These assessments
include: cardiopulmonary exercise test including maximal oxygen uptake test (VO2max),
six-minute walk test, muscular testing, assessment of physical activity (IPAQ
questionnaire), fatigue (MFI20 questionnaire), quality of life (EORTC QLQ C30), anxiety and
depression symptoms (HADS) and nutritional evaluation: BMI and total body photonic
absorption.