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RESEARCH: Nanette Mutrie, Anna M Campbell, Fiona Whyte, Alex McConnachie, Carol Emslie, Laura Lee, Nora Kearney, Andrew Walker, and Diana Ritchie Benefits of supervised group exercise programme for women being treated for early stage breast cancer: pragmatic randomised controlled trial BMJ 2007; 0: bmj.39094.648553.AEv1 [Abstract]

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Breast Cancer Care on BMJ exercise study

Christine Fogg   (17 February 2007)

Exercise Works but How?

Robert S. Brown   (9 March 2007)

Breast Cancer Care on BMJ exercise study 17 February 2007
Christine Fogg, Chief Executive Breast Cancer Care, Kiln House, 210 New King's Road, London SW6 4NZ Send response to journal: Re: Breast Cancer Care on BMJ exercise study	The BMJ is to be applauded for its exercise study and recommendations published today (group exercises can help to improve the physical and psychological well being of people diagnosed with breast cancer, BMJ online 16/2/07). As the first randomized, controlled trial of its kind in the UK, this is an important addition to the growing evidence of the benefits of exercise interventions during treatment for breast cancer. The recent Cochrane Review found that exercise can have a significant impact on the physical well being of those diagnosed with breast cancer. The BMJ study is the first to show both a physical and psychological benefit post treatment for breast cancer patients participating in an exercise intervention. We hear from patients on a daily basis that there is a lack of cancer rehabilitation programmes available which could significantly help manage the physical and emotional impact of the disease. Whilst Breast Cancer Care provides a wealth of information via our helpline, website, publications and tailored patient events, there is an urgent need for clear guidance and information to be provided by NHS professionals. The government has a clear opportunity, as part of its upcoming Cancer Reform Strategy Review, to consider the mounting evidence that exercise rehabilitation services for cancer patients, similar to those that are currently offered to cardiac patients, could benefit thousands. Yours Faithfully Christine Fogg, Joint Chief Executive, Breast Cancer Care Competing interests: None declared
Exercise Works but How? 9 March 2007
Robert S. Brown, Clinical Professor of Psychiatric Medicine, School of Medicine, University of Virginia Kenner Army Health Clinic, Ft Lee, VA 23801 Send response to journal: Re: Exercise Works but How?	The intriguing and sometimes dramatic effect of exercise on the body, the brain, and the mind cannot be doubted. Its mechanisms of action, however, remain unclear. I tell my depressed patients that exercise is "hot stuff," it raises the core body temperature to 104 degrees, cerebral circulation increases, metabolism through out the body increases, and sweating on the brow is the evidence that exercise is working. What does this have to do with cancer?When carcinogens are injected into rats whose cage temperature is lowered they must run on treadmills to remain warm: the cancer rate is much lower than rats whose cages are warm and exercise less (reference upon request). They tell me the exercising rats look more handsome, as well. Robert S. Brown, MD, PhD Charlottesville Competing interests: None declared