Moderate Physical Activity Mediates the Association between White Matter Lesion Volume and Memory Recall in Breast Cancer Survivors

Abstract

Increased survival rates among breast cancer patients have drawn significant attention to consequences of both the presence of cancer, and the subsequent treatment-related impact on the brain. The incidence of breast cancer and the effects of treatment often result in alterations in the microstructure of white matter and impaired cognitive functioning. However, physical activity is proving to be a successful modifiable lifestyle factor in many studies that could prove beneficial to breast cancer survivors. This study investigates the link between white matter lesion volume, moderate physical activity, and cognition in breast cancer survivors following treatment compared to non-cancer age-matched controls. Results revealed that brain structure significantly predicted cognitive function via mediation of physical activity in breast cancer survivors. Overall, the study provided preliminary evidence suggesting moderate physical activity may help reduce the treatment related risks associated with breast cancer, including changes to WM integrity and cognitive impairment.

Replacing sedentary time with physical activity or sleep: effects on cancer-related cognitive impairment in breast cancer survivors

“…The aging literature in general provides strong and consistent evidence in support of moderate-to-vigorous aerobic exercise training for improving cognitive functioning and brain health in older adults [ 41 ]. These associations have been replicated in studies of physical activity and CRCI [ 7 , 8 , 10 , 11 , 42 ]. However, none have investigated the cognitive benefits of MVPA in conjunction with, independent of, or in replacement of other activity behaviors in cancer survivors.…”

Effects of BEAT Cancer randomized physical activity trial on subjective memory impairments in breast cancer survivors

“…This suggests that high levels of PA may beneficially influence memory impairments in BCS, but activity must be maintained in order for improvements in memory to continue. Positive associations between BCS' PA participation and executive functioning, visual‐spatial processing, attention, working memory, verbal memory, and memory recall have been observed in other studies . Yet few have investigated associations longitudinally or within the context of a randomized trial .…”

“…Positive associations between BCS' PA participation and executive functioning, visual-spatial processing, attention, working memory, verbal memory, and memory recall have been observed in other studies. 4,8 Yet few have investigated associations longitudinally or within the context of a randomized trial. 9 Exercise interventions targeting both subjective and objective cognitive function in cancer survivors warrant further study.…”

“…BCS have exhibited decrements in visual and verbal working memory and reported more memory complaints after treatment . Breast cancer survivors have also performed more poorly on memory recall tasks when compared with noncancer, age‐matched controls . Unfortunately, these impairments, whether real or perceived, can have temporary or enduring impacts on BCS' quality of life …”

“…Rodent studies have suggested a protective effect of aerobic physical activity (PA) on cognitive impairment after chemotherapy . Within the few studies to examine relationships in human models, significant associations between PA and memory have been observed . This evidence suggests that PA may represent an effective treatment for CRCI.…”