Exercise May Combat “Chemo Brain” and Preserve Cognitive Function During Cancer Treatment

Up to 75% of cancer patients experience cognitive difficulties during and after chemotherapy, often referred to as “chemo brain.” New research suggests that a structured exercise program can help mitigate these effects, preserving mental sharpness and improving executive functioning. A study led by researchers at the Wilmot Cancer Institute at the University of Rochester found that patients who adhered to a prescribed exercise regimen while undergoing chemotherapy were better able to maintain their walking-step goals and cognitive abilities compared to those who did not exercise.

Understanding Chemo Brain

“Chemo brain” isn’t a single issue, but rather a collection of symptoms impacting cognitive function. Patients often report experiencing brain fog, difficulty with memory, and challenges managing daily tasks like finances, medications, or household responsibilities OSF HealthCare. While there’s no single standard treatment, research indicates that consistent exercise may reduce these symptoms and improve cognitive performance Johns Hopkins Medicine.

The EXCAP Exercise Prescription

Researchers developed a specific exercise prescription, called EXCAP (Exercise for Cancer Patients), in collaboration with exercise professionals from the American College of Sports Medicine. This program is designed to be safe, practical, low-cost, home-based, and tailored to each patient’s physical capabilities. It incorporates progressive aerobic walking and resistance band exercises Liv Hospital.

Study Findings

The phase 3 clinical trial involved nearly 700 patients receiving chemotherapy for the first time for various cancers at 20 community oncology clinics across the US. Participants were randomly assigned to either standard care or the six-week EXCAP exercise prescription during chemotherapy. All participants tracked their daily steps and exercises.

Prior to chemotherapy, patients averaged 4,000 to 4,500 steps per day. The study revealed that individuals in the exercise group were more likely to maintain their usual daily step count during chemotherapy, while those in the standard care group reduced their steps by 53%.

patients who exercised reported improved mental sharpness.

The Importance of Structure

Researchers found that a structured exercise prescription was crucial for positive outcomes. Without it, patients significantly reduced their daily walking and experienced increased cognitive difficulties OSF HealthCare.

Chemotherapy Schedule Matters

The benefits of exercise were most pronounced in patients receiving chemotherapy every two weeks. The reasons for this difference are still under investigation, but researchers speculate that the drugs used in two-week cycles may have different toxicities and less severe side effects, allowing patients to remain more active.

Beyond Exercise: A Holistic Approach

Regardless of the chemotherapy schedule, non-pharmacological interventions like exercise, cognitive training, and mindfulness are important for managing chemo brain. These approaches are safe, accessible, and often cost-effective compared to more intensive treatments OSF HealthCare.

Key Takeaways

• Up to 75% of cancer patients experience cognitive difficulties during and after chemotherapy.
• A structured exercise program, like EXCAP, can help preserve cognitive function during chemotherapy.
• Maintaining physical activity levels is crucial; patients without a structured program often reduce their daily steps significantly.
• The benefits of exercise may be more pronounced for patients on a two-week chemotherapy cycle.
• Non-pharmacological interventions, including exercise, cognitive training, and mindfulness, are valuable tools for managing chemo brain.

This research highlights the importance of integrating supportive care, such as exercise, into cancer treatment plans. Cancer care providers should discuss home-based exercise options with their patients and, when appropriate, refer them to exercise oncology specialists for personalized programs.