Researchers conducted a trial involving 320 patients with early-stage breast cancer who were undergoing aromatase inhibitor endocrine therapy. The study compared two groups: one group used an activity tracker and followed a 24-week walking program, while the other group received general recommendations for physical activity.
The results showed that women using the activity tracker took more steps daily and maintained higher activity levels at the 12-month and 24-month follow-up marks compared to those without trackers. While the tracker helped patients stay active over a long period, it did not result in a difference in the number of people who experienced joint pain or reported higher pain levels during the program.
This study suggests that wearable trackers with clear instructions can be helpful tools for staying consistent with exercise goals. However, because this was a specific trial on activity levels, patients should talk to their doctors about how much and what type of exercise is safest for their specific condition.
