The influence of objectively measured physical activity and sedentary time on the fitness of elderly female breast cancer survivors - pilot study.

Abstract

Introduction and objective: Treatment for breast cancer is associated with numerous adverse effects that may impair functional fitness. The aim of the study is to assess physical fitness levels and examine the influence of objectively measured physical activity and sedentary time on functional fitness among independently functioning breast cancer survivors (BCS) over the age of 60. The influence was assessed of the overall distribution of adiposity and adipose tissue on the level of fitness and physical activity.

Material and methods: 88 breast cancer survivors with an average age of 69 years were included in the study. Physical activity was measured using ActiGraph GT3X triaxial accelerometer. Senior Fitness Test (SFT) was used to assess functional fitness.

Results: Time spent in moderate-to-vigorous physical activity was positively correlated with performance in SFT3, SFT4, SFT5 and SFT6 trials. Sitting time showed a negative correlation with SFT1, SFT3, SFT5 and SFT6 trial results. Objective measurements of PA indicated that participants primarily engaged in LPA, with an average of approximately 290 minutes per day. Average daily sitting time was 765 minutes.

Conclusions: Breast cancer survivors often fail to meet the recommendations regarding physical fitness. The flexibility of the upper extremity, agility and balance were the most impaired components. Patients older than 60 years do not undertake vigorous physical activity. Improvements in functional fitness were seen in older patients who engaged in more physical activity or spent less time sitting.