Association of physical activity before, during, and after chemotherapy for breast cancer with cognitive function

Cancer-related cognitive decline is an important clinical problem. Physical activity (PA) is a promising intervention; however, its use in patients undergoing active treatment is limited. A nationwide prospective cohort study in the USA investigated timing and dose of PA in patients with breast cancer as well as its relationship to cognitive function. The study found that PA in patients declined during chemotherapy before recovering to pretreatment levels 6 months after chemotherapy completion; however, most patients remained insufficiently active. More PA before chemotherapy, and adhering to national PA guidelines during chemotherapy, were associated with better cognition over time.