The effects of exercise on body weight and composition in breast cancer survivors: an integrative systematic review.
OBJECTIVE
To examine the research literature regarding the effects of exercise on body weight and composition in breast cancer survivors.


METHODS
Primary studies in English published from 1989-2004, located through electronic databases, hand searches, and personal contacts.


RESULTS
Of 1,314 studies screened, 14 met all inclusion criteria. Body weight and composition generally were secondary endpoints. Effects on weight were less common than reduction in percentage of body fat.


CONCLUSIONS
The evidence regarding exercise as a strategy for body weight and composition management in breast cancer is sparse. Research that considers these outcomes as primary endpoints is needed. Numerous measurement issues need to be addressed in future studies.


CONCLUSIONS
Exercise may help to control adverse body weight and composition changes among breast cancer survivors. Improved research that assigns these outcomes primary importance will greatly enhance clinicians' ability to assist women in body weight and composition management.
Ingram
Carolyn
C
School of Nursing, McMaster University, Hamilton, Canada. ingramc@mcmaster.ca
Courneya
Kerry S
KS
Kingston
Dawn
D
D001823:Body Composition; D001835:Body Weight; D001943:Breast Neoplasms / Q000150:complications / Q000534:rehabilitation* / Q000628:therapy; D002986:Clinical Trials as Topic; D005081:Exercise Therapy; D005260:Female; D006801:Humans; D016896:Treatment Outcome