Exercise can help women fight chemo brain during treatment

A Canadian study found that aerobic exercise during chemotherapy can alleviate “chemo brain” – a term used for cognitive problems such as memory loss, difficulty concentrating and brain fog. These effects, often experienced by women undergoing chemotherapy for breast cancer, can last for weeks to years. This recent study found that women who exercised during chemotherapy thought more clearly and reported better quality of life. The findings highlight how adding a physical activity component can support mental well-being during cancer care.

Key findings from the ACTIVATE study

In the Aerobic Exercise and Cognitive Functioning in Women with Breast Cancer (ACTIVATE) study, 57 women from Ottawa and Vancouver participated in 12-24 weeks of aerobic exercise. The group was split in two: 28 women started exercise routines in addition to their chemotherapy treatments, while the remaining 29 started after finishing chemotherapy. Cognitive assessments were conducted before and after chemotherapy, which showed that those who exercised during chemotherapy felt mentally sharper than those who received standard care.

However, formal testing did not find a measurable difference in cognitive skills between the two groups. While self-reports suggested improved mental clarity for those who exercised, neuropsychological tests failed to capture significant changes in specific cognitive tasks.

Lead researcher Dr. Jennifer Brunet of the University of Ottawa suggests that adding exercise routines to cancer care could help address both physical and cognitive health needs. Many women receiving chemotherapy often remain inactive due to limited exercise options tailored to their needs. Dr. Brunet suggests that healthcare and fitness organizations work together to design accessible exercise programs specifically for cancer patients. “The standard of care for cancer should include recommendations for exercise,” Dr. Brunet said, with the goal of making this option widely available to women meeting the demands of cancer treatment.

The findings of this study, published in CANCER, a journal of the American Cancer Society, point to a future where exercise could become an important part of comprehensive cancer care.