Exercise referral for post-surgery breast cancer patients.
Research type
Research Study
Full title
Exercise referral to fitness centre or cardiac rehabilitation among post-surgery breast cancer patients: Pilot single-arm trial with embedded process evaluation (EFECT)
IRAS ID
177963
Contact name
Gill Hubbard
Contact email
Sponsor organisation
University of Stirling
Duration of Study in the UK
1 years, 0 months, 1 days
Research summary
Research shows the benefits of exercise for patients recovering from breast cancer, including lower risk of cancer recurrence and improved survival and symptoms (e.g. fatigue). However, it is not clear what the most effective way to get these patients to be more active to achieve the benefits.
In this pilot project, preliminary research will explore two options to help women with breast cancer become more active. One option is to enrol women in a weekly exercise session led by a physiotherapist, within a cardiac rehabilitation service in the hospital. The other option is to provide free leisure centre membership to allow women to attend exercise classes and use gym facilities whenever they wish. We will explore any changes in activity levels before and after the fitness intervention, and examine the how acceptable patients and staff found the process. We will also look at any effect on quality of life, functional strength and fatigue. Interviews will be conducted to gain in-depth feedback from patients and staff involved.
REC name
North of Scotland Research Ethics Committee 1
REC reference
15/NS/0026
Date of REC Opinion
1 Apr 2015
REC opinion
Unfavourable Opinion