Physiotherapy Review

Abstract

3/2025 vol. 29
Research paper

Physical activity and cognitive function in breast cancer survivors: a cross-sectional comparative study

  1. Nazilli Vocational School of Health Services, Aydin Adnan Menderes University, Aydın, Turkey
  2. Söke Vocational School of Health Services, Aydin Adnan Menderes University, Söke, Aydın, Turkey
  3. Faculty of Health Sciences, Department of Physiotherapy and Rehabilitation, Aydın Adnan Menderes University, Aydın, Turkey
  4. Faculty of Medicine Research and Application Hospital Department of Oncology, Aydın Adnan Menderes University, Aydın, Turkey
Physiotherapy Review, 2025, 29(3), 73-84
Online publish date: 2025/09/25
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Background

Breast cancer is currently the most frequently diagnosed cancer worldwide and the leading cause of cancer-related death among women. Recent studies have emphasized the various challenges survivors encounter post-treatment, including anxiety, sleep disturbances, and depression, all of which significantly affect their quality of life. Despite growing interest in this field, there is limited research examining the association between the levels of physical activity and cognitive function in breast cancer survivors.

Aims

Aims: This study aimed to examine the relationship between physical activity levels, cognitive function, and quality of life in breast cancer survivors. We asked whether physical activity supports cognitive health and enhances post-treatment recovery.

Materials and Methods

A cross-sectional comparative study was conducted with breast cancer survivors (BCS) and age-matched healthy controls (CG). Physical activity was assessed via the International Physical Activity Questionnaire. Quality of life and cognitive function were measured using the EORTC-QLQ-C30 and the Montreal Cognitive Assessment. Group comparisons were analyzed using the Mann-Whitney U test (p < 0.05).

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