Investigating the effects of a ten-week circuit training program on balance in people with cancer

Background Cancer is a major burden of disease worldwide which continues to rise. Prevalence of falls increases with age, whilst those with a diagnosis of cancer have also been found to be predisposed to a greater risk of falls, partially due to impaired balance. Exercise programs in older adults have been shown to improve balance and reduce fall risk. Objective The aim of this study was to explore the effectiveness of a 10-week circuit training program on balance and fear of falling (FoF) among adults diagnosed with cancer. Methods Participants ( n = 12) completed a 14-item balance (Mini-Balance Evaluation Systems Test (BESTest)) and FoF (Falls Efficacy Scale - International (FES-I)) assessment prior to taking part in a 10-week circuit training program. Upon completion of the program, participants completed a post-assessment, consisting of the Mini-BESTest and FES-I. Results Balance significantly improved, as measured by the Mini-BESTest ( p = 0.003; mean difference: 15.2%; BCa 95% CI: 10.1% to 20.8%), with significant improvements in three of the four subcomponents ( Reactive Postural Control : p < 0.001; Dynamic Gait : p < 0.001; Anticipatory Postural Adjustments : p = 0.046) following the 10-week circuit training program. FoF significantly decreased following the program ( p = 0.026; mean difference: −4.8; BCa 95% CI: −8.1 to −1.9). Conclusion A 10-week circuit training program significantly improved balance and reduced FoF among older adults diagnosed with cancer. Such exercise interventions could be considered as part of routine care following a diagnosis of cancer, as they may help reduce healthcare costs and improve quality of life among people with cancer.