The relationship between physical activity levels and selected physiological and psychological parameters in women with breast cancer post treatment [electronic resource]
Thesis (M.A.)--The University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill, 2007
Cancer treatments cause numerous side effects that can last years post-treatment. Fatigue is the most common side-effect and can lead to a reduction in patients' functionality and overall quality of life. The purpose of this study was to evaluate physical activity levels (IPAQ), selected physiological and psychological parameters on breast cancer survivors prior to staring an exercise/recreation therapy program. A secondary purpose explored relationships between the IPAQ and all psychological and physiological parameters evaluated. Sixteen female breast cancer patients participated in the study. Results found a significant positive relationship between physical activity levels and overall fatigue (P=0.039). A multiple regression analyses showed that depression accounted for the greatest amount of variance in both fatigue and quality of life (P=0.012 and 0.000). Knowing the multidimensional impact of cancer on overall fatigue and quality of life, the management of depression becomes critical in improving the patient's well being and overall health
