Many people undergoing chemotherapy experience a frustrating side effect often called "chemo brain." These cognitive changes can include trouble concentrating, memory problems, and difficulty juggling multiple tasks. According to researchers, as many as 80% of chemotherapy patients experience some degree of cancer-related cognitive impairment.
Now, a Phase II clinical trial suggests that two relatively simple interventions, exercise and low-dose ibuprofen, may help reduce some of these cognitive challenges. The study was published in CANCER, a peer-reviewed journal of the American Cancer Society.
Exercise and Ibuprofen Put to the Test
Scientists have long known that both physical activity and anti-inflammatory medications can support brain health in various medical conditions. However, their effects on cancer-related cognitive impairment have not been well studied.
Because exercise and ibuprofen reduce inflammation through different biological pathways, researchers wanted to determine whether either approach, or a combination of both, could help protect cognitive function during chemotherapy.
