Improving Cognitive Function Through High-intensity Interval Training in Breast Cancer Patients Undergoing Chemotherapy

Inclusion Criteria13

• Written informed consent prior to any study-related procedures
• Women newly diagnosed (Stage I-III) breast cancer.
• Over the age of 18 years; children under the age of 18 will be excluded due to rarity of disease
• The effects of exercise on the developing fetus are unknown. For this reason, women of child-bearing potential must agree to undergo a pregnancy test and to use adequate contraception (hormonal or barrier method of birth control or abstinence) prior to study entry and for six months following duration of study participation. Should a woman become pregnant or suspect that she is pregnant while participating on the trial, she should inform her treating physician immediately.
• Will receive (neo)adjuvant chemotherapy
• Speak English
• Able to provide physician clearance to participate in the exercise program
• Able to initiate a supervised exercise program (free from any cardiovascular, respiratory or musculoskeletal disease or joint problems that preclude moderate physical activity)
• Have not experienced a weight reduction ≥10% within the past 6 months
• Currently participate in less than 60 minutes of structured exercise/week
• Does not smoke (no smoking during previous 12 months)
• Willing to travel to DFCI for assessments (54 visits total for those who elect the exercise group with on campus training session, 6 visits for those that elect the exercise at home option, 6 visits for those assigned to the control group)
• Ability to understand and the willingness to sign a written informed consent document.