The Role of Physical Activity

HOW IT CAN ASSIST IN CANCER PREVENTION AND RECOVERY?

Cancer is becoming more prevalent, so we thought we would touch on this topic knowing that many of you know of someone who is currently being treated or has survived cancer, or maybe you have it yourself.

Cancer describes a disease in which abnormal cells multiply without control. More than 120,000 new cases are diagnosed yearly and one in two men and one in three women will be diagnosed with cancer by the age of 85.

EXERCISE AND CANCER PREVENTION

Research is showing strong evidence that being physically active plays an important role in the prevention of cancer, in particular, colorectal, breast and endometrial cancer. There is also emerging evidence linked with reduced risk of cancers such as prostate, lung and ovarian.

EXERCISE FOR CANCER SURVIVORS 

There is growing evidence that indicates exercise after diagnosis may improve long-term survival rates, at least in breast and colon cancer. The benefits of exercise during and after treatment are:

Preservations or Improvements                                          Reductions

Muscle mass, strength and power                                       Hospitalisation duration

Physical functioning                                                               Stress – psychological and emotional

Range of motion                                                                      Anxiety and depression

Immune function                                                                    Body image, mood and self esteem

Chemotherapy completion rates                                         Number and severity of symptoms of side effects reported

Body image, mood and self esteem

WHAT TYPE OF EXERCISE IS BEST FOR CANCER SURVIVORS? 

Avoid inactivity and always progress exercise gradually. Any exercise program should be individualised to the person’s needs and abilities, but the overall aim is to meet the physical activity guidelines recommended for the general population.

These may be unrealistic straight after surgery or other forms of treatment. In this case the following is encouraged:

  • Limit sedentary behaviour (ie sitting or lying down).
  • Maintain and gradually aim to return to typical day to day activities.
  • Gradually introduce planned aerobic based exercise such as walking, cycling or swimming. Aim to build up to the recommended 150 minutes of moderate-intensity exercise weekly.
  • Include resistance based exercise twice a week, such as weights, body weight or band exercises.

CONTRAINDICATIONS TO EXERCISE

As with anyone starting exercise, consulting with your doctor is the first place to start. Extra care needs to be considered in choosing activities for survivors, including those with increased risk of bone fractures and cardiovascular events or heart and lung problems. If suffering with symptoms such as fever, low blood cell count or a recent change in treatment related symptoms, exercise may not be suitable at this stage.

For further information refer to Exercise is Medicine; www.exerciseismedicine.org.au; Fact Sheet “Cancer and Exercise” – May 2014