Exercise program for early stage breast cancer patients

A Randomized Controlled Study of a 12-week Exercise Intervention Program Versus Observation in Early Stage Breast Cancer Patients on the Impact on Mental Health, Quality of Life and Immune Markers

Phase 3 Interventional National University Hospital, Singapore · NCT03518957

This study tests whether a 12-week exercise program can help women with early stage breast cancer feel better mentally and physically compared to usual care.

Quick facts

PhasePhase 3
Study typeInterventional
Enrollment304 (estimated)
Ages21 Years to 70 Years
SexFemale
SponsorNational University Hospital, Singapore Academic / other
Drugs / interventionschemotherapy
Locations3 sites (Singapore and 2 other locations)
Trial IDNCT03518957 on ClinicalTrials.gov

What this trial studies

This clinical trial investigates the effects of a 12-week exercise intervention program compared to usual care in early stage breast cancer patients. The study aims to assess the impact of exercise on mental health, quality of life, and immune markers over a five-year follow-up period. A total of 304 eligible female participants aged 21-70 years will be randomized into two groups, with assessments of physical activity, depression, anxiety, and biological markers conducted throughout the study. The trial seeks to provide insights into how exercise can influence survivorship outcomes in breast cancer patients.

Who should consider this trial

Good fit: Ideal candidates are female patients aged 21-70 with a diagnosis of stage I-III breast cancer who have undergone curative surgery.

Not a fit: Patients with cardiovascular, respiratory, or musculoskeletal issues that prevent moderate physical activity may not benefit from this study.

Why it matters

Potential benefit: If successful, this intervention could significantly improve mental health and quality of life for breast cancer survivors.

How similar studies have performed: Previous studies have shown promising results regarding the benefits of exercise in cancer survivorship, suggesting that this approach is both relevant and potentially impactful.

Eligibility criteria

Show full inclusion / exclusion criteria
Inclusion Criteria:

* Female
* Age 21-70 years
* Histological or cytological diagnosis of breast carcinoma
* Stage I-III breast cancer
* Has undergone curative breast cancer surgery with no clinically measurable tumor
* Between 4-12 weeks from the last adjuvant radiotherapy or chemotherapy session, if given, whichever is later. Patients who do not receive adjuvant chemotherapy or radiotherapy can be enrolled and will be randomized within 4-12 weeks of breast cancer surgery.
* Able to sign informed consent
* Able to adhere to study procedures

Exclusion Criteria:

* Cardiovascular, respiratory, or musculoskeletal problems that preclude moderate physical activity
* Major medical problems deemed by the investigator to be unsuitable for enrollment

Where this trial is running

Singapore and 2 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.
Conditions Breast Cancer
Last reviewed 2026-06-15 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.