From American Institute for Cancer Research with comments from John Sacco, MD, a radiation oncologist with OHC
April 23, 2018
John F. Sacco, MD
Radiation Oncologist with OHC
The old advice to “get plenty of rest” during cancer treatment has been updated. Today, research suggests that exercise, when carefully monitored, is a safe and powerful tool to improve the health and quality of life of cancer patients. It’s important to speak to a member of your cancer care team or an exercise specialist who can help adapt exercise programs to be appropriate for your needs.
“As part of a care plan, we almost always include some form of exercise,” said John Sacco, MD, a radiation oncologist with OHC who is an expert in cancer risk reduction through comprehensive dietary and lifestyle modification. “Some of our patients walk around the block and others are able to play soccer. Whatever their level of strength, it’s important for cancer patients to be active during their treatment. Exercise helps to reduce fatigue, which is a common complaint associated with radiation and chemotherapy. Exercise also helps with weight control, and studies have shown that gaining weight during and after treatment raises the risk of a cancer recurrence, particularly for breast, colon and prostate cancers. Finally, exercise helps to modulate the immune system which can often be adversely affected by cancer treatments. ”
The latest guideline from the American College of Sports Medicine says if and when you are able, you should aim to get the same amount of exercise the government recommends for the average person: 150 minutes (2.5 hours) per week of moderate intensity aerobic exercise along with muscle training and flexibility exercises.
Take it slowly and carefully, especially if you were not exercising regularly before your diagnosis. Build up your level of activity in a step-by-step manner and keep your oncologist and other health providers informed. The level of supervision needed for individuals undergoing treatment to exercise safely varies and clinicians will need to adapt exercise programs to the individual survivor.
Of course, how much activity you’re able to do during treatment depends on many factors related to your specific diagnosis, treatment, age and fitness level. Ask your cancer care team for guidance.
Research is ongoing as to how much of a role physical activity plays in reducing recurrence and lengthening life. Among cancer patients, research suggests that moderate, supervised physical activity may improve or increase:
- Quality of life
- Muscle mass
- Muscle strength and power
- Aerobic fitness
- How far you can walk
- Immune system capacity
- Ability to do daily activities
- Flexibility
It may decrease:
- Nausea
- Body fat
- Fatigue
- Heart rate
- Length of hospitalization
- Symptoms/side effects
- Resting blood pressure
- Depression
- Anxiety
For more information about the benefits of exercise during cancer treatments, call OHC at 1-888-649-4800 or contact us here.
