Benefits of supervised group exercise programme for women being treated for early stage breast cancer: pragmatic randomised controlled trial
BMJ 2007; 334 doi: https://doi.org/10.1136/bmj.39094.648553.AE (Published 08 March 2007) Cite this as: BMJ 2007;334:517All rapid responses
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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
Competing interests: No competing interests
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
Competing interests: No competing interests