Intense resistance training may help prevent or reduce lymphedema in breast cancer survivors, according to a study by Allegheny Health Network (AHN) researchers published in the Journal of the American Medical Association. Lymphedema, characterized by swelling due to fluid retention, affects about 40% of breast cancer patients and can impair mobility and quality of life.
The study was conducted by physicians and clinical researchers from the AHN Cancer Institute and published on June 11 in JAMA Network Open. It was co-authored by Dr. Colin E. Champ, a radiation oncologist and clinical director at the AHN Cancer Institute Exercise Oncology and Resiliency Center. The research examined how intense resistance training impacts lymphedema, a common side effect of breast cancer treatment.
Lymphedema often develops when axillary lymph nodes are impacted during treatment through surgery or radiation therapy, causing improper drainage of lymph fluid from the upper extremities. This leads to swelling that varies in severity.
In the study titled “Resistance Training and Lymphedema in Breast Cancer Survivors,” 115 breast cancer patients with a median age of 54 participated as subjects; 26% had been clinically diagnosed with lymphedema. Participants engaged in progressive resistance training three times weekly for three months to improve strength, mobility, and muscle growth.
Results measured via bioimpedance analysis showed significant reductions in extracellular water and improved fluid balance among all participants. The ratio of extracellular water to total body water improved significantly, indicating reduced lymphedema and increased lean muscle mass after completing the regimen.
The study reported no subjective or clinical worsening of lymphedema among participants (doi:10.1001/jamanetworkopen.2025.14765).
Dr. David Bartlett, surgical oncologist and Chair of AHN Cancer Institute, praised Dr. Champ’s work: “We applaud Dr. Champ and the remarkable, innovative care delivered by the entire exercise oncology program at Allegheny Health Network.” He added that these findings support consistent exercise routines for breast cancer survivors while challenging preconceived notions about strength training for this group.
Founded in 2022 at AHN Suburban in Bellevue, Pa., the AHN Cancer Institute Exercise Oncology and Resiliency Program provides oncology patients with evidence-based exercise interventions aimed at reducing fatigue, rebuilding strength and balance, promoting long-term health throughout their cancer journey.
Dr. Champ emphasized growing evidence linking improved body composition with better survival rates among oncology patients: “We’re incredibly encouraged by the results… as it further emphasizes that resistance training — both before and after diagnoses… can significantly improve overall health outcomes both physically and mentally.”
Research presented earlier this month at an American Society of Clinical Oncology Conference demonstrated similar benefits for colon cancer survivors engaging in structured exercise programs.
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