Aerobic exercise's effect on immune response in cancer patients

Acute Effect of Moderate and High-Intensity Aerobic Exercise on the Anticancer Immune Response in Individuals Undergoing Treatment for Curable Cancer

NA · Université de Sherbrooke · NCT06911970

This study tests if aerobic exercise can help boost the immune response in patients with non-metastatic breast or colorectal cancer during their treatment.

Quick facts

PhaseNA
Study typeInterventional
Enrollment44 (estimated)
Ages40 Years to 70 Years
SexAll
SponsorUniversité de Sherbrooke (other)
Drugs / interventionschemotherapy, immunotherapy
Locations2 sites (Sherbrooke, Quebec and 1 other locations)
Trial IDNCT06911970 on ClinicalTrials.gov

What this trial studies

This clinical trial investigates how aerobic exercise influences the mobilization and functionality of anticancer immune cells in patients undergoing treatment for non-metastatic breast or colorectal cancer. The study aims to determine whether exercise can enhance the migratory capacity of immune cells, such as natural killer cells and cytotoxic T lymphocytes, and whether the intensity of exercise affects this response. By examining the relationship between exercise and immune activation, the trial seeks to explore the potential of exercise as an adjunct to cancer immunotherapy.

Who should consider this trial

Good fit: Ideal candidates include individuals aged 40 to 70 with non-metastatic breast or colon cancer who are currently undergoing chemotherapy or immunotherapy.

Not a fit: Patients with orthopedic, cardiac, or metabolic limitations that prevent safe aerobic exercise may not benefit from this study.

Why it matters

Potential benefit: If successful, this study could enhance the effectiveness of cancer treatments by utilizing exercise to boost the immune response against tumors.

How similar studies have performed: Previous studies have shown promising results regarding the role of exercise in enhancing anticancer immunity, suggesting that this approach may be viable.

Eligibility criteria

Show full inclusion / exclusion criteria
Inclusion Criteria:

* Diagnosis of non-metastatic breast or colon cancer
* Age between 40 and 70
* Have started chemotherapy or immunotherapy treatment and have at least three treatments remaining in the cycle
* ECOG stage 0 to 1
* Be able to perform moderate-intensity aerobic exercise (MOD) or EPI type cycling according to the established prescription and without experiencing pain in connection with the bicycle saddle

Exclusion Criteria:

* Orthopedic, cardiac or metabolic limitation preventing safe aerobic exercise
* Non-controlled health condition
* Use of beta-blockers
* Planned surgery during the study period.

Where this trial is running

Sherbrooke, Quebec and 1 other locations

Study contacts

How to participate

  1. Review the eligibility criteria above with your treating physician.
  2. Visit the official trial page on ClinicalTrials.gov for the most current contact information and recruitment status.
  3. Contact the listed study coordinator or principal investigator to request pre-screening. Pre-screening is free and never obligates you to enroll.

View on ClinicalTrials.gov →

Conditions: Colorectal Cancer, Breast Cancer, Non Metastatic Cancer, cancer, exercise, T cells, NK cells, Migration

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.