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Modifying modularity: aerobic exercise improves functional connectivity in breast cancer survivors.
Lindsey L Page1, Abi Heller-Wight1, Connor J Phipps1
1Department of Neurological Sciences, University of Nebraska Medical Center, Omaha, NE, United States.
Frontiers in Cognition
|June 24, 2026
Summary
Aerobic exercise may improve brain network organization in breast cancer survivors (BCS). A 12-week program significantly increased brain modularity, suggesting a potential mechanism for improved cognitive function in BCS.
Area of Science:
- Neuroscience
- Exercise Science
- Oncology
Background:
- Cancer-associated cognitive decline (CACD) affects breast cancer survivors (BCS).
- Reduced brain network modularity is linked to cognitive decline in aging and disease.
- Aerobic exercise (AE) may improve cognitive function by altering brain organization.
Purpose of the Study:
- To investigate the preliminary effects of a 12-week AE program on brain network modularity in BCS.
- To explore correlations between changes in modularity, physical activity, and cognitive function.
Main Methods:
- A subsample of 10 BCS from a pilot study were randomized to AE or usual care (UC).
- Brain MRI, accelerometry, and cognitive tests were administered at baseline and 3 months.
- Intervention effects were quantified using Cohen's d; correlations explored using Spearman's rank correlation.
Main Results:
- The AE group showed a significant increase in brain network modularity (t = 3.08, p = 0.03, d = 1.17).
- Changes in modularity favored the AE group (d = 0.23 to 0.67).
- No significant correlation was found between changes in moderate-to-vigorous physical activity (MVPA) and modularity (r = 0.36, p = 0.39).
Conclusions:
- Aerobic exercise may positively influence functional brain network organization in BCS.
- These findings support further investigation in larger trials to understand AE's impact on cognition and brain health in cancer survivors.
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