Deciphering the role of high-intensity interval training in breast cancer: systematic review

Abstract

Breast cancer is one of the most widespread and proliferative cancers worldwide. This has a great impact on healthcare spending. Although it is known that physical exercise improves different aspects related to cancer, it is currently unknown what type of training or intensity is best for this. The prupose of this systematic review was to find out the physiological, cognitive and economic effects of HIIT for this type of patient. The search was carried out in the databases PubMed, Web of Science, MEDLINE and Scopus, using the descriptors «cancer, high intensity interval training and breast». Of the 78 initially obtained, 32 met all the inclusion criteria.The studies analysed focus mainly on adding a HIIT programme to the treatment of people who suffer, have suffered or are at risk of suffering from cancer, seeing the positive effects on physical, cognitive and financial capacities.This method is safe and feasible, and leads to an increase in the quality of life of these patients. In addition, it can improve physical abilities and quality of life, reduce treatment completion rates, hospitalization and healthcare costs. Its implementation in cancer patients should be taken into account by professionals in the medical field, as well as physiotherapists and sports professionals, given its benefits.