Home-Based Exercise May Aid Cognitive Function in Chemotherapy Patients
A new trial suggests that cancer patients undergoing chemotherapy may maintain mental sharpness through a simple home-based exercise program. "Chemo brain," a common side effect affecting up to 80% of patients, can make daily tasks challenging. Participants in the exercise group demonstrated improved attention and fewer noticeable cognitive problems compared to a placebo group. Low-dose ibuprofen also showed some cognitive benefits, though its effects were less consistent in the study.
A significant majority of individuals receiving chemotherapy, up to 80%, experience a condition colloquially known as "chemo brain." This side effect can impair cognitive function, making everyday tasks more difficult to perform.
Recent research has explored potential interventions for this challenge. In a new trial, cancer patients who participated in a home-based exercise program exhibited better attention and reported fewer noticeable cognitive problems. This outcome was observed when compared to a control group that received a placebo.
Additionally, the trial investigated the effects of low-dose ibuprofen. While ibuprofen was found to improve some cognitive measures, its positive effects were noted as less consistent across participants compared to the exercise intervention.
According to Science Daily, these findings suggest practical approaches that may help mitigate cognitive difficulties during chemotherapy.
Advertisement
AdSense slot • inline
