Assessing the Quality of Life with Cardiovascular Training and Pilates for Breast Cancer Survivors

Abstract

Introduction: It has been estimated that over 15 million women suffer from breast cancer. Consequently, there
is a lot of interest in physical treatment for breast cancer recovery. This study aims to find the impact of aerobic
exercises and Pilates on improving QoL, fatigue, pain and physical fitness in breast cancer patients. The study
is focussed on assessing the quality of life with cardiovascular training versus Pilates exercise for breast cancer
survivors.
Methods: Total of 12 participants were chosen from Saveetha hospital (Chennai) and Global Hospital (Madanapalle),
by random sampling. They were asked for a written consent form. The patients were randomly divided into
two groups after completing pre-tests for QoL and FACIT-F. GROUP A received cardiovascular training (aerobic
exercise program) alone and GROUP B received a combined program (aerobic exercise and Pilates). After 8 weeks
of training with combined exercise and aerobic exercise alone QoL and FACIT-F scores were re-evaluated and
post-test was reported. The collected data were tabulated and analysed. (Study period : September 2022 to June
2023).
Result: A significant difference in terms of statistics was found between GROUP A and GROUP B as well as within
the group, based on the statistical examination of the quantitative data.
Conclusion: The findings of the present study demonstrate improvements in both Pilates exercise and
cardiovascular training among women with breast cancer. However, GROUP B shows an extremely significant
improvement compared to GROUP A.