Modification of the cardiometabolic risk and quality of life through an exercise program on Mexican breast cancer survivors

Abstract

Background: Survival to breast cancer has increased all over the world; however, secondary and long-term side effects which may increase cardiometabolic risk (CMR) and deteriorate the quality of life of survivors may occur to oncological treatments. The objective of this work was to evaluate the modification of these factors after a combined and progressive exercise program. Methods: Self-controlled clinical study. Women younger than 65 years old, survivors of breast cancer, and with authorization from their oncologist signed an informed consent and followed a combined and progressive exercise program of 24 weeks. The CMR was evaluated with biochemical, anthropometric and cardiorespiratory fitness (CRF) parameters; the quality of life was evaluated (questionnaires SF-36 and FACT-B) at the beginning and end of the program. Descriptive statistics and evidence of Wilcoxon sign test were used (p <0.05, SPSS v20.0 Windows). Results: Thirty women, 52 year-old with a body mass index (BMI) of 28.9 kg/m2 were evaluated. After 24 weeks there was a significant improvement for the CRF with an increase of 2.9 METs and 10.1 mL*kg-1*min-1, and for the quality of life with an increase of 9.0 and 11.1 points (SF-36 and FACT- B respectively). The BMI decreased 1.1 kg/m2, the waist 3.7 cm, the fat mass 3.0% and the muscle mass increased 2.9%. Conclusions: The exercise program decreased the CMR by increasing CRF, improving body composition and decreasing abdominal fat mass; these results lead to the perception of a better quality of life.