Physical activity following a breast cancer diagnosis: Implications for self-rated health and cancer-related symptoms.

PURPOSE: Studies have consistently shown an association between physical activity and increased health and well-being after a cancer diagnosis. Nevertheless, large proportions of breast cancer survivors do not meet recommended levels of physical activity. The aim of this study was to describe physical activity levels during the first two years after being diagnosed with breast cancer, and to explore the predictive ability of physical inactivity on longer-term self-rated health, physical symptoms, and psychological distress.

METHOD: Study participants were women recently having had a first breast cancer surgery at one of the three main hospitals in Stockholm between 2007 and 2009. A total of 726 women were included and responded to six questionnaire assessments during the 24 months following diagnosis.

RESULTS

Less than one third of the participants were sufficiently physically active at baseline. Physical activity decreased after surgery, increased at 8 month follow-up, and subsequently decreased slightly during the subsequent follow-up period. Physical inactivity was related to reduced health, increased symptoms such as pain, depression, and anxiety.

CONCLUSION

This study provides additional support for the beneficial consequences of being physically active after a breast cancer diagnosis and highlights a potential target for intervention. This study provides additional support showing that being physically active even at a very low level seems to result in health benefits. Physical activity should be encouraged among patients treated for breast cancer.