Diane Ehlers, Ph.D., in the UNMC Department of Neurological Sciences, is seeking participants for her study, “Physical Activity’s Relationship with Cancer and Cognition (SPARCC)” (IRB#: 091-19-FB)
About the study:
We are testing an exercise program, delivered in Omaha area fitness centers, in women living with breast cancer. Participants will be randomized to an exercise group or a usual care group. All participants will be asked to complete two testing visits and a set of questionnaires before the study begins and again three months later. Participants will also be invited to complete a brain MRI at UNMC, but this is not required for participation in the study. The following provides more details:
The study is seeking females:
- Post-menopausal at time of breast cancer diagnosis
- First, primary diagnosis of Stage I-IIIa breast cancer
- Completed primary treatment (i.e., surgery, chemotherapy, and/or radiation therapy).Women currently prescribed adjuvant endocrine therapy (e.g., aromatase inhibitor, estrogen receptor downregulator, selective estrogen receptor modulator) will be eligible to participate.
- Available to attend exercise sessions three times weekly for 12 weeks
- No scheduled travel for greater than seven consecutive days during the intervention
- Agree to be randomized to an exercise group or usual care group
- English reading and speaking
- Receive physician’s clearance to participate in exercise
- Provide written informed consent to participate in the study.
Participants are expected:
- To attend two testing visits before the study and three months later, including:
- Treadmill exercise test
- Neurocognitive assessments including cognitive games and electroencephalography (EEG)
- Questionnaires
- Wear an activity monitor during daily life for seven days
- Some individuals will be invited to complete a brain MRI at the Core for Advanced MRI (CAMRI) at UNMC; however, participation in this aspect of the study is not required.
- Those in the exercise intervention group will be expected to attend 36 supervised exercise sessions with a fitness trainer three times per week for 12 weeks
- Schedules are based on participant time and location preference and trainer availability
To express interest in participating, contact:
Lindsey Hanson at 402-559-6870, lindsey.hanson@unmc.edu or enl@unmc.edu.
The UNMC Department of Neurological Sciences’ “Current Studies” website