Role of dance as part of adapted physical activity program in breast cancer survivors: a pilot study

Aim. The aim of this paper was to evaluate the dance role as part of an adapted physical activity (APA) program on the improvement of upper limb motor function and quality of life in breast cancer survivors. Methods. Eighteen women (age 53±7.68), recruited by the Cancer Rehabilitation Center in Florence after the completion of breast cancer treatment and at the end of the rehabilitative physiotherapy, completed a 8-week dance program. At the baseline and post-intervention, the subjects underwent a battery of fitness tests to assess shoulder-arm mobility, range of motion, and back flexibility. All participants filled out the Short Form-12 and numerical rating scale (NRS) questionnaires to assess the quality of life and the back and shoulder pain intensity, respectively. Results. After intervention, participants showed significantly improved functioning of upper limb with decreased pain, as well as quality of life. Conclusion. Dance may represent a further effective method in APA program for promoting health and well-being in breast cancer survivors.