Optimizing Pulmonary Health and Quality of Life in Breast Cancer Survivors: A Randomized Controlled Trial Combining Incentive Spirometry and Aerobic Exercise.
Dian Marta Sari, Irma Ruslina Defi, Andre Maharadja and 4 others
PMID 40678279WHAT IT FOUND
Adding incentive spirometry to aerobic exercise improved lung capacity and quality of life more than aerobic exercise alone.
The combined group saw greater gains in physical function and larger drops in breathlessness, fatigue, and insomnia after 8 weeks.
Key findings
01The treatment group had a significantly greater improvement in forced vital capacity compared to the control group.
02The treatment group showed significantly better physical function and reduced dyspnea, fatigue, and insomnia compared to the control group.
03The observed improvements in lung function and quality of life exceeded the minimal clinically important difference.
STILL TO COME
How it was doneWhat they foundWhat it means for PTs
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What it does not show
The study did not objectively measure radiation-induced lung damage or control for patients' other physical activities outside the study. There was a risk of the 'testing effect,' where patients improved simply by practicing the specific spirometry test repeatedly. The study did not reassess COVID-19 status during the intervention, which could have influenced lung function and adherence. Multiple statistical tests were performed without adjustment, increasing the chance of false-positive results.
Declared interests
The authors declare no competing interests.
The easy way to misread this
Do not assume incentive spirometry alone is responsible for the aerobic capacity gains. The treatment group received both aerobic exercise and breathing exercises, so the specific contribution of the spirometry to the overall energy and fatigue improvements cannot be separated from the cycling.