Exercise and fitness program for breast cancer survivors to improve heart health
Breast cancEr, FITness and ExeRcise for Heart Health: The BE-FITTER Study
This study tests whether a special exercise and yoga program can help breast cancer survivors over 60 improve their heart health and physical fitness after treatment.
Quick facts
| Phase | Not applicable |
|---|---|
| Study type | Interventional |
| Enrollment | 60 (estimated) |
| Ages | 60 Years and up |
| Sex | Female |
| Sponsor | University of Alberta Academic / other |
| Drugs / interventions | trastuzumab, chemotherapy |
| Locations | 1 site (Edmonton, Alberta) |
| Trial ID | NCT06595147 on ClinicalTrials.gov |
What this trial studies
This study investigates the effects of structured exercise training and group-based yoga on heart and muscle health in breast cancer survivors aged 60 and older. It aims to address the decline in functional capacity and increased cardiovascular risk associated with chemotherapy treatments for breast cancer. Participants will be randomized to either an exercise training group or a stretching group to assess improvements in their physical function and overall health. The study seeks to fill a gap in current rehabilitation practices for this population by providing tailored exercise interventions.
Who should consider this trial
Good fit: Ideal candidates for this study are breast cancer survivors aged 60 and older who have completed their primary treatment at least one year prior.
Not a fit: Patients with a history of significant heart disease or those currently engaged in structured exercise training may not benefit from this study.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this study could enhance the physical health and quality of life for breast cancer survivors by improving their heart function and exercise capacity.
How similar studies have performed: Other studies have shown positive outcomes with exercise interventions in similar populations, suggesting a promising approach for improving health in breast cancer survivors.
Eligibility criteria
Show full inclusion / exclusion criteria
Inclusion Criteria: * Age ≥60 years * Previously diagnosed with early-stage (I-III) BC * Completed (≥1 year post) primary cardiotoxic treatment (anthracycline-based chemotherapy or trastuzumab-based biological therapy). Exclusion Criteria: * Have a history of coronary artery disease, heart failure, persistent and permanent arrhythmia (e.g. currently in atrial fibrillation), stroke, or chronic obstructive pulmonary disease * Develop signs or symptoms of myocardial ischemia (≥1mm horizontal or down-sloping ST segment depression on electrocardiogram) during the cardiopulmonary (VO2peak) test * Have any research MRI contraindications (e.g. any type of pacemaker), or any orthopedic limitation preventing exercise testing * Currently performing structured exercise training (defined as ≥30 mins/day of moderate-to-vigorous aerobic and/or resistance exercise training on ≥4 days/week) * Are unwilling to be randomized to either ExT or STRETCH
Where this trial is running
Edmonton, Alberta
- University of Alberta — Edmonton, Alberta, Canada (Recruiting)
Study contacts
- Study coordinator: Nathan Weeldreyer, PhD
- Email: ageheart@ualberta.ca
- Phone: 616.566.6756
How to participate
- Review the eligibility criteria above with your treating physician.
- Visit the official trial page on ClinicalTrials.gov for the most current contact information and recruitment status.
- Contact the listed study coordinator or principal investigator to request pre-screening. Pre-screening is free and never obligates you to enroll.