Can exercise help short-term memory?
Meet the Experts
Patricia A. Ganz, M.D. is a medical oncologist and a professor in the schools of medicine and public health at UCLA, and is director of the division of cancer prevention and control research at the Jonsson Comprehensive Cancer Center there.
Marisa Weiss, M.D. is a radiation oncologist specializing in breast cancer and the founder, president, and guiding force behind Breastcancer.org.
Question from PGEvans: Is there any research demonstrating that physical exercise improves short-term memory?
- Answers —Patricia Ganz, M.D.: At this point in time, I'm not aware of physical exercise improving short-term memory. If someone is exercising regularly, one is more likely to sleep better, and that may help someone's memory due to better sleep.
- Marisa Weiss, M.D., president and founder: For people who are having difficulty sleeping, avoid alcohol. While it may help you go to sleep initially, you're more likely to wake up during the evening. Also, alcohol can interfere with your ability to think and remember well.
On Wednesday, August 16, 2006, our Ask-the-Expert Online Conference was called Thinking and Memory Challenges. Patricia A. Ganz, M.D. and moderator Marisa Weiss, M.D. answered your questions about the memory and concentration challenges that can happen during and after breast cancer treatment.
The materials presented in these conferences do not necessarily reflect the views of Breastcancer.org. A qualified healthcare professional should be consulted before using any therapeutic product or regimen discussed. All readers should verify all information and data before employing any therapies described here.
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