Aerobic Exercise for Cancer Survivors
What You Need to Know Before You Apply
What is the purpose of this trial?
This trial explores how extra body weight affects fitness and certain health markers in cancer survivors who have completed their treatments. Participants will join a 15-week aerobic exercise program to assess how exercise influences their health post-cancer. The trial seeks individuals diagnosed with breast, prostate, or colorectal cancer, who completed treatment 6 months to 5 years ago, and can commit to a supervised exercise routine.
As an unphased trial, this study offers a unique opportunity to contribute to understanding the role of exercise in improving health outcomes for cancer survivors.
Will I have to stop taking my current medications?
The trial information does not specify whether you need to stop taking your current medications. However, you must not be undergoing any current cancer treatment, including hormonal treatment, to participate.
What prior data suggests that aerobic exercise is safe for cancer survivors?
A previous study showed that aerobic exercise improved the quality of life for cancer patients undergoing chemotherapy, including those with breast and colorectal cancer. Another study found that aerobic exercise enhanced heart and lung fitness in cancer survivors, even for those who had undergone challenging treatments like anthracyclines, which can affect the heart.
Physical activity is widely recommended for cancer survivors. Scientific organizations endorse exercise, including aerobic activities, as safe and beneficial. No major safety concerns have been reported for aerobic exercise in cancer survivors, suggesting it is generally well-tolerated and safe for those who have completed cancer treatment, including individuals with breast, prostate, or colorectal cancer.12345Why are researchers excited about this trial?
Researchers are excited about aerobic exercise for cancer survivors because it's a non-invasive way to potentially improve health and well-being after cancer treatment. Unlike traditional treatments, which often involve medication or surgery, aerobic exercise simply uses movement to boost physical fitness and mental health. This approach can enhance quality of life, reduce fatigue, and improve heart health without the side effects associated with many medical treatments. Plus, it empowers survivors to take an active role in their recovery.
What evidence suggests that aerobic exercise might be an effective treatment for cancer survivors?
Research has shown that aerobic exercise, which participants in this trial will engage in, greatly benefits cancer survivors. It improves the coordination of the heart and lungs, even for those who have undergone treatments like chemotherapy. Exercise also reduces fatigue, a common side effect of cancer treatment, and lowers the risk of heart disease. For individuals with colorectal cancer, being active after diagnosis is linked to a lower risk of death. Overall, regular aerobic exercise leads to better health outcomes for cancer survivors.12367
Who Is on the Research Team?
Ryan Marker, PT, PhD
Principal Investigator
University of Colorado, Denver
Are You a Good Fit for This Trial?
This trial is for breast, prostate, or colorectal cancer survivors who are overweight or obese. They should have finished their cancer treatments between 6 months and 5 years ago and must be able to do supervised exercise with a doctor's clearance.Inclusion Criteria
Timeline for a Trial Participant
Screening
Participants are screened for eligibility to participate in the trial
Treatment
Participants engage in a 15-week standardized aerobic exercise intervention
Follow-up
Participants are monitored for adherence and physiological responses post-intervention
What Are the Treatments Tested in This Trial?
Interventions
- Aerobic Exercise
Find a Clinic Near You
Who Is Running the Clinical Trial?
University of Colorado, Denver
Lead Sponsor