HIIT in reduction of risk for breast cancer
Research type
Research Study
Full title
High intensity interval training in BRCA1/2 genetic mutation carriers for reduction of risk in breast cancer – A magnetic resonance (MR) feasibility imaging trial (INTENSE)
IRAS ID
319424
Contact name
Sai Man (Gabriel) Cheung
Contact email
Sponsor organisation
University of Aberdeen
Duration of Study in the UK
0 years, 11 months, 30 days
Research summary
Breast cancer affects 1 in 8 women in their lifetime, and prevention is critical to help reduce burden on the NHS healthcare system and avoid undesirable side effects from treatment. Lifestyle changes such as physical exercise and weight loss reduce the risk of developing breast cancer. High intensity interval training, with short bursts of intense exercise alternated with low intensity recovery periods, can improve body fat (lipid) composition, blood sugar and heart health in a short space of time.
Lipids are a broad range of different fats that are found in the human body. It has been shown that breast cancer is associated with a change in lipid composition in the breast, and certain lipids slow down or even reverse tumour development. BRCA1/2 genetic mutation carriers who have a high risk of developing breast cancer have abnormal patterns of lipid composition in their breast tissue, indicating that a change in lipid composition may predict the risk of breast cancer. Furthermore, physical exercise has been shown to be effective in altering lipid composition in breast.
We will investigate the effects of interval training on lipid composition in the high risk group to examine the level of reduction in risk of developing breast cancer. We will recruit 12 genetic mutation carriers and 12 healthy controls from a recent clinical trial who have undertaken a baseline MRI scan to undertake interval training. After the exercise programme, we will conduct a follow-up MRI scan and blood test.
This project aims to quantify the relation between exercise intervention and the underlying risk factors, facilitating more informed prevention strategies and personalised care.
REC name
North West - Preston Research Ethics Committee
REC reference
23/NW/0207
Date of REC Opinion
1 Sep 2023
REC opinion
Further Information Favourable Opinion