This research project aims to unravel the connections between cancer, dementia, and physical activity to improve our understanding and potentially enhance the well-being of individuals facing these health challenges. As people age, the risks of both cancer and dementia increase, and there is a potential link between these two conditions. Certain cancer treatments, including chemotherapy and hormone therapy, may affect cognitive function. Despite the link between cancer treatment and cognitive changes, it’s still unclear if cancer itself contributes directly to dementia. Conflicting reports exist on whether cancer patients face an increased or decreased risk of developing dementia. This uncertainty highlights the need to establish the prevalence of dementia in individuals with cancer to comprehend the full scope of these co-existing conditions.
We also know that physical activity plays a crucial role in health, with higher fitness levels associated with a lower risk of dementia in non-cancer populations. Physical activity has proven benefits for dementia patients, improving strength, balance, mobility, and cognitive function. Similarly, it’s beneficial for people with cancer, enhancing physical function and quality of life during and after treatment. However, we currently lack information on how physical activity might impact individuals dealing with both cancer and dementia. This research project seeks to fill this gap by addressing three main objectives. Firstly, we aim to determine the current prevalence of dementia in people with cancer, comparing it to those without cancer to understand if the risk is increased, decreased, or similar. Secondly, we want to explore if levels of physical activity in people with cancer are linked to dementia diagnoses. Lastly, we aim to investigate the associations between physical activity levels and various physical and psychological outcomes in individuals with both cancer and dementia.
To accomplish these goals, we will analyze data from the UK Biobank. The statistical analysis is anticipated to last for 6-months. By the end of this research, we hope to gain insights that could inform preventive measures and interventions for those facing cancer and dementia. Ultimately, the findings could positively impact public health by providing guidance on how physical activity might contribute to better outcomes for individuals dealing with these challenging health conditions.
