Researchers from Florida Atlantic University’s Department of Exercise Science and Health Promotion are seeking breast cancer survivors to participate in a research study examining whether supervised aerobic exercise, with or without non-invasive brain stimulation, can improve memory, concentration and focus following cancer treatment.
Breast cancer survivors frequently report cognitive changes after treatment — often referred to as “chemo brain” or cancer-related cognitive impairment — that can affect memory, attention, processing speed and everyday functioning long after treatment has ended. Researchers hope the study will provide new insights into safe, non-drug approaches that may help improve cognitive function and overall quality of life.
“Our goal is to identify accessible, evidence-based strategies that can help breast cancer survivors regain confidence in their cognitive abilities and improve their daily lives,” said Ashley Artese, Ph.D., principal investigator and an assistant professor in FAU’s Department of Exercise Science and Health Promotion. “Many survivors continue to experience challenges with memory, concentration and focus long after treatment has ended. By studying the combined effects of exercise and non-invasive brain stimulation, we hope to advance interventions that support long-term brain health and enhance quality of life for the growing population of breast cancer survivors.”
Researchers are seeking volunteers who can meet the following criteria:
- Have been diagnosed with breast cancer (stages 0-III).
- Completed primary treatment (surgery, chemotherapy and/or radiation) at least three months ago.
- Have noticed changes in memory, concentration, or focus following cancer treatment.
- Are not currently participating in a regular exercise program.
The study begins with a baseline assessment that includes evaluations of cognitive function, physical fitness, physical activity, body composition, and physical function, as well as surveys measuring well-being and quality of life.
Participants will then complete four weeks of supervised aerobic exercise, which may be combined with non-invasive brain stimulation sessions, followed by post-intervention assessments to measure changes in cognitive and physical function.
In addition to contributing to research that could improve care for future breast cancer survivors, participants will receive personalized information about their health, functional performance and body composition, along with $125 in Amazon gift cards upon completion of the study.
All assessment and exercise sessions will take place at the Functional Fitness Laboratory (Field House West) on FAU’s Boca Raton campus.
For more information and/or to determine eligibility, contact Ashley Artese by emailing her at aartese@fau.edu.
This article originally appeared on Palm Beach Post: Breast cancer survivors needed for FAU research study
