Post-Pandemic Physical Activity, Sedentary Behavior, and Body Composition Among Mexican Breast Cancer Survivors: Implications for Survivorship Health

Purpose: Physical activity (PA) and sedentary behavior (SB) are modifiable factors associated with improved body composition (BC) and lower morbidity risk in breast cancer survivors. The COVID-19 pandemic disrupted activity patterns worldwide, but data on post-pandemic habits among Latin American survivors remain scarce. This study examined PA and SB levels and explored whether their relationship with BC varies based on cancer history status. Methods: In this cross-sectional study, 120 Mexican women (60 breast cancer survivors and 60 women without cancer history) reported PA and SB using validated questionnaires. BC indicators were assessed using dual-energy X-ray absorptiometry. Correlation analysis and multivariable linear regression were performed, adjusting for pertinent confounders. Results: The mean age was 52.5 ± 9.3 years. Overall, 57% were physically inactive, and the average sitting time was 4.8 ± 2.8 hours per day. PA levels were negatively correlated with total body fat percentage (TBFP) (rho = − 0.26), fat mass index (rho = − 0.20), waist circumference (rho = − 0.20), and android fat mass (rho = − 0.20) (all p < 0.05). SB was not associated with BC. After adjustment, PA level remained independently inversely associated with TBFP (p < 0.05), and cancer history status did not modify this relationship. Conclusions: Physical inactivity persists post-pandemic among Mexican women, including breast cancer survivors. PA is associated with healthier BC, independent of cancer history status. Implications for Cancer Survivors: Increasing PA through structured, culturally tailored support integrated into survivorship care may improve body composition and mitigate long-term health risks among post-pandemic breast cancer survivors.