6 Minute pegboard and ring test performance of patients with breast cancer compared to healthy controls: A cross-sectional study

Purpose Upper limb dysfunction and inability to carry out everyday tasks are important consequences of disease process in breast cancer survivors. The aim of this study was to compare upper extremity functional exercise capacity and arm functionality between patients with breast cancer and healthy controls. Methods Ninety individuals participated in this analytical cross-sectional study. The study included 45 patients with breast cancer (mean age = 56.69 ± 9.37 years) and 45 healthy controls (mean age = 54.71 ± 6.54 years). The unsupported functional arm exercise capacity was evaluated using the 6-min Pegboard and Ring Test (6PBRT). The Quick Disabilities of the Arm, Shoulder, and Hand Questionnaire (Q-DASH) was used for arm functions. Results The 6PBRT score of patients with breast cancer was significantly lower than those of healthy controls with medium effect size (194.16 ± 34.91 rings and 218.87 ± 43.87 rings, respectively; p = 0.004, η 2 = 0.065). The mean Q-DASH score of the patients was 22.12 ± 15.70. According to the Q-DASH score, 35.6% ( n = 16) of the participants’ arm functions were classified as normal, 51.1% ( n = 23) having problems but working, and 13.3% ( n = 6) being unable to work. There was a significant moderate negative correlation between 6PBRT performance and Q-DASH score in patients’ with breast cancer ( r = −0.453, p = 0.002). Conclusion Upper extremity exercise capacity and functionality are negatively affected in breast cancer survivors. Therefore, cardio-oncological rehabilitation approaches should incorporate arm aerobic exercise training to improve arm functionality during long-term follow-up after breast cancer medical treatments.