Increasing physical activity to improve thinking skills in breast cancer survivors

A Randomized Trial of Physical Activity for Cognitive Functioning in Breast Cancer Survivors

NIH-funded research University of California, San Diego · NIH-10557838

This study is looking at how getting more active can help breast cancer survivors who have had chemotherapy feel better mentally and improve their thinking skills, and it’s designed for those who are facing challenges with memory or focus after treatment.

Quick facts

Grant typeR01 grant
Study typeNIH-funded research
Funding institutionUniversity of California, San Diego NIH-funded
Lab location1 site (La Jolla, United States)
Project IDNIH-10557838 on NIH RePORTER

What this research studies

This research investigates how increasing physical activity can enhance cognitive functioning in breast cancer survivors who have undergone chemotherapy. The study will involve 250 participants who are experiencing cognitive difficulties post-treatment. By engaging in a structured physical activity program, the researchers aim to assess improvements in cognitive abilities, as well as reductions in anxiety and depression. The approach is based on previous findings that suggest physical activity can positively influence cognitive health.

Who could benefit from this research

Good fit: Ideal candidates for this research are breast cancer survivors who are within five years post-treatment and are experiencing cognitive difficulties.

Not a fit: Patients who are not breast cancer survivors or those who have not undergone chemotherapy may not benefit from this research.

Why it matters

Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to effective strategies for improving cognitive function and overall quality of life for breast cancer survivors.

How similar studies have performed: Previous studies have shown that physical activity can improve cognitive function in non-cancer populations, suggesting potential for success in this novel application.

Where this research is happening

La Jolla, 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.
Last reviewed 2026-06-13 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.