PHYSICAL ACTIVITY IN WOMEN AFTER BREAST CANCER TREATMENT: AN ASSESSMENT STUDY
Abstract
Background: Breast cancer remains the most commonly diagnosed malignancy among women in Poland. Effective postoperative rehabilitation, including physical activity, plays a crucial role in restoring functional capacity, reducing complications, and improving overall quality of life.
Aim: To evaluate the level of physical activity in women after surgical breast cancer treatment, considering type of surgery, presence of lymphedema, psychological factors, and changes compared with pre-treatment activity
Methods: A cross-sectional survey was conducted among 58 women treated surgically for unilateral breast cancer. Data were collected using an author-designed questionnaire and the International Physical Activity Questionnaire (IPAQ).
Results: Most participants were older than 55 years, retired, and had undergone radical mastectomy. Lymphedema occurred in approximately one-quarter of the women. Across all subgroups, physical activity declined after treatment, regardless of surgery type or presence of lymphedema. Most women perceived physical activity as beneficial for recovery, but a significant proportion lacked clear guidance.
Conclusions: Physical activity levels decrease following breast cancer treatment, yet women recognize its value. Systematic patient education and structured rehabilitation programs should be integral to oncologic care.
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Copyright (c) 2026 Dariusz Nędza, Anastasiia Holoborodko, Ewa Wieczorkiewicz, Eliza Garbacz, Agnieszka Pocheć, Bartosz Lautenbach, Patrycja Stępińska, Klaudia Wojciech, Anhelina Loputs, Wiktoria Błaszczyk
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