Supervised Physical Activity Quickly Improves Social Dimension of Quality of Life in Breast Cancer Patients

Abstract

Purpose: The objectives of the present study was to evaluate the implementation of the program in real life and the evolution of the quality of life (QoL) in breast cancer patients after 3 months of supervised PA in real life and to determine the factors associated with changes in various QoL dimensions.

Methods: This prospective cohort study was carried out in female patients with breast cancer diagnosed within a maximum of 3 yr. QoL and physical exertion intensity during the supervised physical activity (PA) sessions were assessed by the Quality of Life Questionnaire for Cancer and Borg scale, respectively. Statistical analyses comparing QoL scores between the start and the end of supervised PA program were assessed using paired Student's t -tests. Multivariate analysis was performed by linear regression with only variables with a P value <0.15 in univariate model.

Results: A total of 93 patients were included in the analyses. There was a significant improvement of social functioning at T3 (∆ = 11.5; P < 0.001). The improvement of social functioning was significantly and independently associated with the Borg improvement ( β = 2.66 ± 1.31, P = 0.046), chemotherapy ( β = 11.03 ± 5.45, P = 0.046), hormone therapy ( β = -13.91 ± 5.51, P = 0.013), social isolation ( β = -14.81 ± 6.55, P = 0.026), and comorbidities ( β = -15.32 ± 5.59, P = 0.007).

Conclusions: We observed a real enthusiasm and need among patients for practicing PA supervised by a sport trainer near their home. The increase in the intensity of exercise over time contributes to the improvement of the QoL, especially on the social functioning. These results, consistent with previous literature, reinforce the importance of exercise intensity on many dimensions of QoL. In addition, patients expressed great satisfaction with the supervised program, resulting in a strong desire to maintain long-term PA.