CARDIOTOXICITY INDUCED BY ANTINEOPLASTIC TREATMENT AND THE IMPACT OF CARDIOVASCULAR REHABILITATION ON THE QUALITY OF LIFE OF BREAST CANCER PATIENTS

Abstract

Breast cancer is one of the most prevalent malignancies among women, and advances in antineoplastic treatment, although increasing survival rates, may cause cardiotoxicity and compromise quality of life. This study aimed to analyze the role of cardiovascular rehabilitation in preventing and mitigating cardiotoxic effects associated with antineoplastic treatment in patients with breast cancer. An integrative literature review was conducted based on the methodology proposed by Whittemore and Knafl (2005), using the PubMed and PEDro databases. Studies published between 2014 and 2025 were considered, including primary research and systematic reviews, with or without meta-analysis. Of the 135 articles identified, six met the eligibility criteria and were included in the analysis. The findings indicated that supervised physical exercise contributes to improvements in cardiorespiratory fitness, peak oxygen uptake (VO₂peak), and muscle strength, while reducing symptoms such as fatigue and pain. The timing of the intervention influenced the outcomes, with greater cardiorespiratory benefits observed after chemotherapy. It is concluded that cardiovascular rehabilitation represents a promising complementary strategy, although further studies are needed to standardize rehabilitation protocols and clarify their effects on cardiac function.