Using resistance training and protein to improve body composition during breast cancer treatment

NeoChemoPRT: A Randomized Study of Resistance Training and Post-Workout Protein to Improve Body Composition During Neoadjuvant Chemotherapy for Breast Cancer

Not applicable Interventional Allegheny Singer Research Institute (also known as Allegheny Health Network Research Institute) · NCT06858449

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

PhaseNot applicable
Study typeInterventional
Enrollment30 (estimated)
Ages20 Years to 89 Years
SexFemale
SponsorAllegheny Singer Research Institute (also known as Allegheny Health Network Research Institute) Academic / other
Drugs / interventionschemotherapy
Locations1 site (Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania)
Trial IDNCT06858449 on ClinicalTrials.gov

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.

Who should consider this trial

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.

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.

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 performed: Other studies have shown positive outcomes with exercise and nutritional interventions during cancer treatment, suggesting this approach may be beneficial.

Eligibility criteria

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 this trial is running

Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania

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 CancerBreast Cancerexerciseresistance training
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.