Aerobic Exercise for Cardiovascular Protection in Breast Cancer Patients (EXACT2 Trial)

Palo Alto (17 mi)

Age: 18+

Sex: Female

Travel: May be covered

Time Reimbursement: Varies

Trial Phase: N/A

Waitlist Available

Sponsor: Nova Scotia Health Authority

No Placebo Group

Approved in 3 jurisdictions

Trial Summary

What is the purpose of this trial?Although great progress has been made in treating breast cancer, long-term health may be impaired by cancer therapy. For example, some chemotherapy drugs (e.g., anthracyclines) are known to cause declines in heart health. While the impact can vary, some will experience substantial heart damage that may lead to heart failure and death. As these treatments are highly effective, there is a need to find ways to reduce the damaging effects while not interfering with its anticancer potential. As it is well-known that regular exercise can improve heart health, the purpose of this study is to explore the role of exercise as a heart protective therapy for breast cancer patients receiving heart damaging chemotherapy.

Eligibility Criteria

The EXACT2 trial is for adults over 18 with stages I-III breast cancer who are about to start chemotherapy that can harm the heart. Participants must be cleared by a cardiologist and able to do a 12-week home-based aerobic exercise program. It's not for those with cognitive issues or conditions that make exercise unsafe.

Treatment Details

This study tests if regular aerobic exercise can protect the hearts of breast cancer patients from damage caused by anthracycline-based chemotherapy, which is known to potentially lead to heart failure.

2Treatment groups

Experimental Treatment

Active Control

Group I: ExerciseExperimental Treatment1 Intervention

Participants will receive standard of care treatment for their breast cancer plus be given a 12-week home based aerobic exercise program.

Group II: ControlActive Control1 Intervention

Participants will receive standard of care treatment for their breast cancer.

Aerobic exercise is already approved in United States, European Union, Canada for the following indications:

🇺🇸 Approved in United States as Aerobic Exercise for: