ASCO26: Jennifer Ligibel, MD, BWEL

Dana-Farber Cancer Institute's Dr. Jennifer Ligibel shared updated results from the BWEL study showing a weight loss intervention led to significantly better physical function, global physical and mental health, and symptom in patients with early breast cancer.

July 1, 2026

Dana-Farber

Overview

The BWEL study demonstrated that a telephone-based weight loss intervention significantly improved physical function, global health, and symptoms in women with early breast cancer. Participants lost an average of 4.7% of their baseline weight over one year, contrasting with weight gain in the control group.

Background

Weight management is a critical aspect of care for women with early-stage breast cancer, particularly for those with overweight or obesity. The BWEL study addresses the impact of a structured weight loss program on health outcomes in this population.

Data Highlights

Group	Weight Change (kg)	Weight Change (%)
Intervention	-4.3	-4.7
Control	+0.9	+1.0

Key Findings

Participants in the weight loss intervention lost an average of 4.3 kg (4.7% of baseline weight) at 12 months.
The control group gained an average of 0.9 kg (1.0% of baseline weight) during the same period.
Significant improvements were observed in PROMIS physical function (mean difference 1.9 points) at 6 months.
Global Physical Health improved by 2.0 points, and Global Mental Health by 1.3 points at 6 months.
Fatigue levels decreased by 1.7 points at 6 months, although this was not sustained at 24 months.

Clinical Implications

The findings from the BWEL study indicate that a telephone-based weight loss program can lead to improvements in physical and mental health for women with early breast cancer.