Irving, TX, July 17, 2017 — Breast cancer survivors seeking ways to combat treatment-related memory complaints may soon find their doctors recommending they get up and get moving. A recent study found that women who work routine exercise into their schedules can lessen the impacts of treatment on memory while also delivering all the other benefits routine, moderate exercise is lauded for.

“The development of what many women call ‘chemo brain’ is a serious concern for some women during and after treatment,” says Dr. Gregory Echt, founder and lead surgeon at Choice Cancer Care. “Associated with confusion, fatigue and a loss of short-term memory, the condition can be very troubling for women to endure. Research is showing ‘chemo brain’ may very well be stress- rather than medication-related, which makes exercise a highly viable treatment.”

The research into the benefits of exercise involved data related to nearly 2,000 women. Researchers learned that women who were dedicated to regular moderate to vigorous exercise schedules experienced fewer subjective memory problems than their counterparts. Women who exercised regularly also expressed higher levels of confidence and reduced complaints related to distress and fatigue during and following treatments.

While more research into the common complaint is warranted, Dr. Echt says the findings so far are quite encouraging.

“If ‘chemo brain’ is stress related, exercise is one of the best ways to help the body alleviate the concern,” says Dr. Echt. “In doing so, women may very well be able to reduce cognitive complaints simply by exercising and reducing their stress levels.”

Women who are undergoing chemotherapy or other breast-cancer related treatments are urged to talk to their doctors before beginning an exercise program. While exercise can have very positive effects on the body and health, it is important to get medical clearance before diving in.

About Choice Cancer Care
Choice Cancer Care is an independent, physician-owned cancer center network. Dr. Gregory Echt, a radiation oncologist with over two decades of experience, is the founder of Choice Cancer Care. Choice Cancer Care is among the busiest practices in the country for brachytherapy, or prostate seed implant therapy – a cancer treatment plan for prostate cancer that provides remarkable success rates and fewer life-limiting side effects.