Physical Activity as an Imperative Support in Breast Cancer Management

SIMPLE SUMMARY: During the recent years, the field of exercise and physical activity have expanded prominently, not only for the prevention but also for the management of different pathologies, including breast cancer. A broad range of studies have been conducted to analyze this relationship, in aim to find the best routines and use of exercise in breast cancer management. Although many works provide contradictory results in these terms, there is less doubt regarding the role of physical activity as a central support for breast cancer patients, due to the systemic benefits of exercise in these women, therefore decreasing the risk of breast cancer-related complications and increasing their quality of life and survival. Future research should be established in order to individualize the physical activity performed by these women based on the available scientific evidence in a multidisciplinary context to maximize the success of breast cancer management. ABSTRACT: Breast cancer (BC) is the most common malignancy and the second cause of cancer-related death among women. It is estimated that 9 in 10 cases of BC are due to non-genetic factors, and approximately 25% to 30% of total breast cancer cases should be preventable only by lifestyle interventions. In this context, physical activity represents an excellent and accessible approach not only for the prevention, but also for being a potential support in the management of breast cancer. The present review will collect the current knowledge of physical activity in the background of breast cancer, exploring its systemic and molecular effects, considering important variables in the training of these women and the evidence regarding the benefits of exercise on breast cancer survival and prognosis. We will also summarize the various effects of physical activity as a co-adjuvant therapy in women receiving different treatments to deal with its adverse effects. Finally, we will reveal the impact of physical activity in the enhancement of quality of life of these patients, to conclude the central role that exercise must occupy in breast cancer management, in an adequate context of a healthy lifestyle.