Supporting women to be active after breast cancer
This study is looking into a new programme called PURE-EX to help women stay active after breast cancer surgery. Many women face challenges like low mood, tiredness, and reduced strength after treatment, which can last for years. Being active can really help with these issues and might even lower the chance of cancer coming back. However, it's often hard for women to find suitable exercise classes and get referrals. The PURE-EX programme aims to make it easier for women to find and join suitable group exercise classes. This study is testing the programme with 45 women to see if they find it helpful, enjoyable, and how it can be made even better. It also looks at how healthcare staff and exercise instructors view the programme. The goal is to improve support for women recovering from breast cancer.
At a glance
What is this study about?
When women finish breast cancer treatment, many find themselves dealing with things like extreme tiredness, feeling down, and not being as strong or fit as they used to be. These problems can unfortunately stick around for a long time. However, getting active can make a big difference! Exercise can help reduce tiredness, improve strength and general health, and make women feel better overall. There's even a chance it could help stop the cancer from returning.
Currently, it's often difficult for women to get the support they need to be active. There aren't many suitable exercise classes designed for them, and doctors and nurses don't always have an easy way to recommend these classes. This study is testing a new programme called PURE-EX, which aims to bridge that gap. PURE-EX is all about making it simpler for women to be referred to and join exercise classes that are a perfect fit for them after breast cancer surgery.
Researchers want to see if the PURE-EX programme works well for women who have had breast cancer surgery. They'll be watching to see if women like the programme, if it helps them feel better, and how it could be improved. They're also keen to hear what the doctors, nurses, and exercise instructors think about it. By doing this, they hope to make it much easier for women across the UK to access the support they need to be active and feel their best after breast cancer.
Key takeaways
- New programme (PURE-EX) helps women exercise after breast cancer surgery.
- Aims to improve fitness, reduce tiredness, and boost overall wellbeing.
- Specifically designed 12-week group exercise classes in local centres.
- Studies how practical and helpful the program is for women and healthcare staff.
- Small risk from exercise, but safety measures are in place.
- Opportunity to help shape future support for other women.
Who may be eligible?
This study is looking for women who are 18 years old or over. You would need to have been diagnosed with early-stage breast cancer (this means stages 1, 2, or 3) and have already had surgery for it. It's also important that your doctor says you are healthy enough to take part in an exercise programme.
To join, you must be willing and able to give your written consent, which means you understand what the study involves and agree to take part. There are some reasons why you couldn't join, for example, if your breast cancer has spread (stage 4) or if you are currently receiving chemotherapy or are due to start it during the study period.
You also can't take part if you haven't fully recovered from your surgery in a way that would make exercise unsafe, or if you have certain other health conditions (like heart problems, or issues with your bones, muscles, or nerves) that could be made worse by exercise. Being pregnant or planning to become pregnant during the study would also mean you couldn't join.
Could this study suit you?
Answer these quick questions to see if you may be eligible. This is a guide only — the research team makes the final call.
- Are you 18 years old or older?
- Have you been diagnosed with early-stage breast cancer (Stage I-III)?
- Have you completed surgery for your breast cancer?
- Has your doctor given you permission to join an exercise programme?
- Are you NOT currently having chemotherapy or due to start it soon?
- Are you NOT pregnant or planning to get pregnant during the study?
What does participation involve?
If you decide to take part in this study, it would involve a few steps. First, during one of your regular clinic appointments, your healthcare professional might suggest you join the programme and give you a referral. If you accept this, you'll then have a one-to-one meeting with an exercise instructor.
After that, you would join a special 12-week group exercise programme. This programme has been designed specifically for women who have had breast cancer treatment and will take place in a local community centre near you. The study aims to run from February 2026 to April 2027.
Potential risks and benefits
Locations (3)
- Queen Elizabeth Hospital (Lead)City onlyGateshead, England
- Royal Victoria InfirmaryApproximateNewcastle upon Tyne, England
- Healthworks NewcastleApproximateNewcastle upon Tyne, England
Common questions
What is the PURE-EX programme?
It's a new programme that helps women who have had breast cancer surgery get referred to and join group exercise classes designed for them.
Why is this study important?
Many women struggle with tiredness and reduced fitness after breast cancer treatment. This study wants to find a better way to help them be active, which can greatly improve their health and wellbeing.
Where will the exercise classes take place?
The classes will be held in local community centres, making them easier to access.
How long does the exercise programme last?
The group exercise programme lasts for 12 weeks.
Who is funding this research?
The study is being funded by Breast Cancer Now.
How to find out more
Morven Brown
Always speak to your GP or specialist before deciding to take part in a study.
Discussion
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