STRENGTH TRAINING AND LYMPHEDEMA SYMPTOMS IN RECENT BREAST CANCER SURVIVORS

Abstract

Of the 1–2 million breast cancer (BrCa) survivors in the US, 200–400,000 have BrCa-associated lymphedema. Risk factors include type of BrCa treatment, elevated body mass index (BMI), and upper limb injury/infection. Few data exist regarding physical activity and lymphedema in BrCa survivors. PURPOSE To examine effects of strength training on lymphedema symptoms in recent BrCa survivors. METHODS We conducted a 6-month randomized control trial of supervised progressive twice-weekly strength training in 61 recent BrCa survivors. Body composition was assessed by DEXA. Arm circumferences (cm) were measured at 4 locations for both upper limbs: metacarpophalangeal (MCP) joints, ulnar styloid process (UCP), and 10 cm distal & proximal to midpoint of lateral epicondyle (DLE and PLE). Regression models predicting ▵ in circumferences from treatment status were adjusted for ▵ in total body lean mass, baseline lymphedema status, age, education, BrCa stage and treatment. RESULTS There were no between-group differences in ipsilateral minus contralateral limb circumferences at baseline or 6 months. Table 1 indicates no clinically relevant (> 1 cm) 6-month ▵ in upper limb circumferences in treatment (n=30) vs control (n=31).Table 1: No Caption AvailableCONCLUSION Contrary to current clinical guidelines, supervised progressive strength training did not clinically increase arm circumferences, a proxy measure of lymphedema, and appears to be a safe exercise modality for BrCa survivors. Supported by Komen Foundation #BCTR0100442