Physical Activity Levels and Functional Improvement in Breast Cancer Survivors (CanEX)

Do Physical Activity Levels Predict Functional Improvements Following a Structured Exercise Program for Women Living With Breast Cancer?

The main objective of our project is to describe what characteristics (e.g., age, current physical activity level) women present when starting the exercise program are potentially associated with an improvement in functional abilities measured with different tests such as the distance you can cover while walking for six minutes.

The main research objective is to investigate the relationship between baseline physical activity and improvement in physical function, quantified using changes in 6-minute walk test (6MWT) results over the course of the 12-week program. An association is hypothesized to exist between the two variables even when adjusted for weeks into treatment. The goal of the 6MWT is to cover as much distance as possible in six minutes, using as many breaks s necessary. The test is often performed using a 20-meter hallway but requires no specific equipment. A recent study reported that the result of the 6MWT could be used as a measure of the major components of global health in women with breast cancer, making its use in our research especially relevant. Aside from physical functions, baseline characteristics will also be used to determine what characteristics, if any, are associated with health and psychosocial outcomes such as quality of life, social connectedness/support, and mental well-being. The data collected is certain to fill a gap in the literature, and will therefore be likely published in an important journal in the field.

Participants will answer a series of questionnaires, wear a physical activity tracker (pedometer) and do functional tests (six minute walk test, chair stand test, balance, back scratch, sit and reach, leg strength and hand strength) pre and post.

27-item questionnaire designed to measure four domains of HRQOL in cancer patients: Physical, social, emotional, and functional well-being

40-item measure that assesses self-reported fatigue and its impact upon daily activities and function

42-item self report instrument designed to measure the three related negative emotional states of depression, anxiety and tension/stress.

Inclusion Criteria: Have received a diagnosis of breast cancer in your lifetime 19 years of age and older Cleared by medical team to participate in the study Have the intention to exercise at the facility for the duration of the study Exclusion Criteria: -