Research in Sport Medicine and Technology

Introduction: This research aimed to analyze the effect of 12 weeks aerobic exercise training on some
characteristics of immune system and general health of women with breast cancer. Methods: 40 female
with breast cancer, undertaking chemotherapy, were classified in exercise group with mean age of 36/9±13/2
years, weight of 67/2±9/95 kilograms and body mass index of 21/9±2/9 kg/m2 and control group with mean
age of 38/6±10/1 years, weight of 65/1±8/28 kilograms and body mass index of 21/4±2/1kg/m2. Exercise
group Perfored in 12 contionous weeks walking with moderate intensity (based on Modified-Borg scale and
40-60% Maximum Heart rate)/3 times a week/30-45 minutes in each session. General Health Questionnaire
(GHQ) was used for evaluating general health level. Before and after 4, 8 and 12 weeks CBC DIFF test was
conducted for aim of assessing some characteristics of immune system. CANCOVA was used to determine
the pure effect of exercise intervention. The data were analyzed with significant level of p≤0/05 and by SPSS
16. Results: General health and hope of life was decreased significantly after intervention in control group
(p≤0.05). Number of leukocytes of exercise group was higher after the exercise intervention, but this
difference was not significant, but number of leukocytes of control group was decreased significantly
(p≥0.05). Conclusion: Regular aerobic exercise with moderate intensity is an effective way in maintenance
the number of leukocytes, improving immune system and enhancing levels of general health.