Influence of Adiposity on IGF-1 and Fitness Response to Exercise in Cancer Survivors

The Influence of Excess Adiposity on Cardiorespiratory, Insulin-like Growth Factor, and Metabolic Responses to a Standardized Aerobic Exercise Program in Cancer Survivors

This is a pilot feasibility study of an investigation of the influence of excess adiposity on cardiorespiratory fitness (CRF), insulin-like growth factor-1 (IGF-1), and metabolic responses to a standardized aerobic exercise program in cancer survivors. This investigation attempts to isolate the influence of adiposity on these responses. We will enroll overweight, obese, and normal weight cancer survivors with a primary diagnosis of breast, prostate, or colorectal cancer who have completed all cancer-related treatment. Participants will engage in a 15-week aerobic exercise intervention with pre- and post-intervention assessments.

Inclusion Criteria:

• Primary cancer diagnosis of breast, prostate, or colorectal cancer

• Completion of all cancer-related treatment > than 6 months prior and < 5 years prior to enrollment

• Ability and willingness to participate in a supervised exercise program

  • All participants will be required to obtain a signed physician clearance to participate in exercise form prior to enrollment

Exclusion Criteria:

• Presence of a secondary active cancer diagnosis or metastatic disease

• Any current cancer treatment (including hormonal treatment) or planned cancer treatment in the next 5 months

• Greater than 100 min of self-reported regular exercise per week

• BMI < 18.5 (underweight)

• Any significant metabolic condition, such as diabetes. Individuals with pre-diabetes or metabolic syndrome will not be excluded, but this information will be recorded.

• Any medical condition that would impact the safety of, or participation in, an exercise program or exercise testing, including:

  • Orthopedic conditions such as advanced osteoarthritis, mobility-limiting amputations or chronic injuries, or mobility-limiting acute orthopedic injuries
  • Advanced rheumatoid arthritis or chronic widespread pain conditions such as fibromyalgia
  • Pulmonary conditions such as chronic obstructive pulmonary disease, emphysema, or interstitial lung disease
  • Known cardiovascular disease, uncontrolled hypertension, or new cardiac event within the past 6 months