How breast cancer treatment affects heart health and aging

Epigenetics, accelerated aging, and cardiovascular health during breast cancer treatment

['FUNDING_R21'] · UNIVERSITY OF WASHINGTON · NIH-11109042

This study is looking at how breast cancer treatments might affect heart health and aging in women, and it aims to find out if staying active can help improve heart function and overall well-being during treatment.

Quick facts

Phase['FUNDING_R21']
Study typeNih_funding
SexAll
SponsorUNIVERSITY OF WASHINGTON (nih funded)
Locations1 site (SEATTLE, UNITED STATES)
Trial IDNIH-11109042 on ClinicalTrials.gov

What this research studies

This research investigates the impact of breast cancer treatment on cardiovascular health and accelerated aging in women. It focuses on understanding how treatments can lead to declines in exercise capacity and heart function, potentially due to epigenetic changes associated with aging. By examining these relationships, the study aims to identify mechanisms that contribute to cardiovascular complications and explore lifestyle modifications, such as increased physical activity, that may help mitigate these effects. The use of accelerometers to track physical activity will provide valuable insights into how exercise can influence aging and heart health during treatment.

Who could benefit from this research

Good fit: Ideal candidates for this research are women currently receiving treatment for breast cancer who may be experiencing declines in exercise capacity or heart function.

Not a fit: Patients who are not undergoing breast cancer treatment or those with pre-existing severe cardiovascular conditions may not benefit from this research.

Why it matters

Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to targeted interventions that improve heart health and quality of life for women undergoing breast cancer treatment.

How similar studies have performed: Previous research has shown that physical activity can counteract the effects of accelerated aging, suggesting that this approach may be effective in breast cancer patients as well.

Where this research is happening

SEATTLE, UNITED STATES

Researchers

About this research

  1. This is an active NIH-funded research project — typically early-stage science, not a clinical trial accepting patient enrollment.
  2. Some NIH-funded labs run parallel clinical studies or seek volunteers for related work. To check, contact the principal investigator or institution listed above.
  3. For full project details, budget, and progress reports, visit the official NIH RePORTER page below.

View on NIH RePORTER →

Last reviewed 2026-05-15 by the Find a Trial editorial team. Information on this page is for educational purposes and is not medical advice. Always consult qualified healthcare professionals about clinical trial participation.