Using resistance training and protein to improve body composition during breast cancer treatment
Official title: NeoChemoPRT: A Randomized Study of Resistance Training and Post-Workout Protein to Improve Body Composition During Neoadjuvant Chemotherapy for Breast Cancer
Run by Allegheny Singer Research Institute (also known as Allegheny Health Network Research Institute) · NCT06858449 · Data updated 2026-11-12
This study is testing if a special protein drink after workouts, combined with strength training, can help women with breast cancer feel stronger and healthier during their treatment.
Quick facts
| Study type | Interventional |
|---|---|
| Ages | 20 Years to 89 Years |
| Sex | Women only |
| Enrollment | 30 (estimated) |
| Sponsor | Allegheny Singer Research Institute (also known as Allegheny Health Network Research Institute) Academic / other |
| Drugs / interventions | chemotherapy |
| Locations | 1 site (Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania) |
| Status | Recruiting |
| Started | January 2, 2025 |
| Main results expected | December 2026 |
| Study ends | March 2027 |
| Registry record updated | February 3, 2026 |
| Trial ID | NCT06858449 on ClinicalTrials.gov |
Is this trial a fit for you?
✓Likely a good fit
Ideal candidates are women aged 20-89 with a biopsy-proven diagnosis of invasive breast cancer who are about to start neoadjuvant chemotherapy.
✕Probably not a fit
Patients who are unable to safely engage in resistance training or have specific health conditions that prevent participation may not benefit from this study.
A plain-English reading of the study's rules. Only the study team can confirm whether you qualify.
What this trial studies
This study investigates the effects of a high-dose post-workout protein regimen combined with high-load resistance training on body composition and functional capacity in women undergoing neoadjuvant chemotherapy for breast cancer. Participants will receive either 20 grams or 60 grams of whey protein after their workouts. The goal is to determine if this combined approach can enhance physical health during cancer treatment. The study focuses on women aged 20-89 with a confirmed diagnosis of invasive breast cancer.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this approach could help improve the physical health and recovery of women undergoing chemotherapy for breast cancer.
How similar studies have gone: Other studies have shown positive outcomes with exercise and nutritional interventions during cancer treatment, suggesting this approach may be beneficial.
Who can join: the full rules
Show full inclusion / exclusion criteria
Inclusion Criteria: 1. Age 20-89 years 2. Women with a biopsy proven diagnosis of invasive carcinoma of the breast. 3. Women must undergo neoadjuvant chemotherapy for breast cancer treatment prior to surgery 4. Must be able to read and understand English and consent for themselves. Exclusion Criteria: 1. Inability to get up and down off the ground or squat body weight 2. Inability to safely engage in group exercise sessions as deemed by study PI 3. Severe arthritic, joint, cardiovascular, musculoskeletal, or any other condition deemed by PI to be unsafe to engage in resistance training 4. Lactose intolerance 5. Cow's milk or whey protein allergy 6. Pregnant women 7. Males
Where it's running
-
Allegheny General Hospital
Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania, United States Recruiting
Study contacts
- Principal investigator: Colin Champ, MD — AHN Radiation Oncology
- Study coordinator: Clinical Trials Contact
- Email: ctgov@ahn.org
- Phone: 412-330-6151
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How to take part
- Review the eligibility criteria above with your treating physician.
- Check the official listing on ClinicalTrials.gov for the latest contact details and recruitment status.
- Contact the study coordinator or principal investigator to ask for pre-screening. Pre-screening is free and never obligates you to enroll.