Research
Hormonal
In breast cancer survivors specifically, physical activity is associated with significant improvements in insulin-like growth factor-I (IGF-I), fatigue, depression, and specific strength metrics (bench press, leg press).
For breast cancer survivors, regular physical activity may help lower insulin-like growth factor-I levels, which is a potential biomarker for cancer risk, while also reducing fatigue and depression. This supports the general recommendation for exercise but highlights specific hormonal benefits.
StrongSupportsHIGH confidence
Based on studies on patients with breast cancer, physical activity was associated with improvements in insulin-like growth factor-I, bench press, leg press, fatigue, depression, and quality of life.
Why this rating
Based on meta-analysis of RCTs, though fewer studies contributed to specific hormonal markers.
Source
Physical activity for cancer survivors: meta-analysis of randomised controlled trials
Dyt Fong et al. · BMJ · 2012
Meta-analysis · 34 studiesCited 788×
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